Russia introduces rival resolution on Syria

“Russia has introduced a rival U.N. resolution calling on Bashar Assad's government to expedite reforms — but making no mention of the sanctions sought by the U.S. and European nations.

Russia's U.N. Ambassador Vitaly Churkin circulated Moscow's draft Friday, a day after he strongly hinted that Russia would veto the U.S. and European-backed resolution calling for an arms embargo on Syria and the freezing of assets against Assad and key supporters of his regime.

The Russian draft calls for an immediate end to all violence, stresses that the only solution to the current crisis is "an inclusive and Syrian-led political process," and urges the opposition to engage in political dialogue with the government.”