Interference in Syria could spark civil war: Russia

Russia on Wednesday warned western powers on the UN Security Council against “outside interference” in Syria’s strife saying it could spark civil war in the key Middle East Nation.

The Syrian government’s crackdown on opposition demonstrators “does not represent a threat to international peace and security,” Russia’s deputy UN ambassador Alexander Pankin told the 15-nation council.

“A real threat to regional security could come from outside interference,” Pankin added. “Such approaches lead to a never ending circle of violence” and could spark civil war.

The Security Council held a special meeting on Syria after failing to agree a joint statement condemning the violence in which hundreds have died.