As CNN reported, “Russia and China vetoed a new U.N. Security Council resolution Thursday that would have imposed new sanctions on the Syrian regime.”
Now, the American ambassador to the United Nations, Susan Rice, has responded, calling the actions taken by China and Russia “dangerous and deplorable.” Rice made her comments on Twitter:
The first 2 vetoes by #Russia and #China were very destructive. This veto is even more dangerous and deplorable. #Syria
— Susan Rice -Archived (@AmbRice44) July 19, 2012
Their position is at odds with majority of #UNSC, #ArabLeague, over 100 countries, & aspirations of Syrians, who deserve much better.
— Susan Rice -Archived (@AmbRice44) July 19, 2012
U.S. has not / will not pin its policy on unarmed observer mission deployed in midst of violence that can’t count on minimal #UNSC support.
— Susan Rice -Archived (@AmbRice44) July 19, 2012
Interestingly, President Obama called Russian president Vladimir Putin yesterday to discuss Syria. “President Obama called Russian President Putin today to discuss the developing situation in Syria,” the White House readout of the call between the American and Russian leader reads. “The two Presidents noted the growing violence in Syria and agreed on the need to support a political transition as soon as possible that achieves our shared goal of ending the violence and avoiding a further deterioration of the situation. They noted the differences our governments have had on Syria, but agreed to have their teams continue to work toward a solution. President Obama also took the opportunity to express condolences on the tragic loss of life resulting from flooding in southern Russia earlier this month and reiterated the U.S. readiness to provide assistance if needed.”
But Obama was clearly not able to convince Putin not to veto today’s U.N. vote.
