Too early to consider sanctions against Myanmar:Putin

Moscow, Sep 29 (UNI) President Vladimir Putin said he considered it premature to discuss possible sanctions against Myanmar, where nine people were killed in a crackdown by security forces during protests.

''As far as the possibility of sanctions is concerned, it is a subject for special consideration by the UN,'' Mr Putin said last night.

''It is too soon to talk about this yet,'' the President was quoted as saying by Ria Novosti.

Russia had said earlier it was seriously concerned by the worsening situation in the conflict-ridden country.

''The violent suppression of mass demonstrations in a number of cities has been accompanied by bloodshed, causing considerable loss of life. Urgent steps are necessary to avert an escalation of tension,'' the Foreign Ministry said in a statement posted on its official Web site.

It said the continuing confrontation would have serious negative consequences for peace, stability and nation building in the country.

The protests, which are the largest in more than two decades, began last month when the junta drastically raised the price of fuel, leaving many people unable to afford even a journey to work.

UNI