Russia Says 'Decision' on Iran Imminent

The head of Russia's army said Tuesday he expected a "decision" on Iran to be taken by Western powers this summer in response to Tehran's disputed nuclear program.

"Iran, of course, is a sore spot. Some sort of decision on it should be taken soon. It will probably be taken closer to the summer," Chief of Staff General Nikolai Makarov was quoted as saying by the RIA Novosti news agency.

Makarov provided no further comment and it was not immediately clear if he was referring to possible military action or future sanctions.

Russia has backed four rounds of United Nations sanctions against Iran over its nuclear program amid growing international concern that it was pursuing military aims. But Moscow has sternly warned against using military action.

Russia last month accused Western powers of trying to "suffocate" the Iranian economy and incite popular discontent with new sanctions such as the impending oil embargo by EU states.