Russisch veto tegen VN-resolutie over Cyprus (en)

Russia vetoed a UN Security Council resolution on Cyprus on Wednesday, three days before the referendum on the island's reunification takes place.

The resolution, backed by the UK and US, outlined plans for a new peacekeeping operation, if both sides accept a UN peace plan for the island.

But Russia felt that the adoption of this resolution just before the referendum takes place, would put outside pressure on the Cypriots, and said that matters included in the draft necessitated thorough discussion.

The resolution was voted in favour by the other 14 countries in the 15-nation council. Russia, however, has veto power as it one of the five permanent members along with the US, France, Britain and China.

Concerns were raised by some Council members about the timing of the resolution and there was a feeling that more time should have been allowed for consultation on the resolution, which was first circulated only this week.

Both Cypriot communities will go to the polls on 24 April, to vote on whether to reunify the island on the basis of a UN plan before the island joins the EU on 1 May.

If one side rejects the plan, EU laws will only apply in the Greek Cypriot part, although the entire island will become EU territory.

Polls suggest that the Greek Cypriots are likely to say "no" this Saturday.