Russia says Saddam's death can breed more violence

MOSCOW, Dec 30 (Reuters) Russia today said it regretted the execution of former Iraqi leader Saddam Hussein and expressed concerns that his death could trigger a new spiral of violence in Iraq.

''Regrettably, repeated calls by representatives of various nations and international organisations to the Iraqi authorities to refrain from capital punishment were not heard,'' Russian Foreign Ministry spokesman Mikhail Kamynin said in a statement.

''Saddam Hussein's execution can lead to further aggravation of the military and political situation and the growth of ethnic and confessional tensions.'' Reuters AD GC1406