"In principle, sanctions are not an effective instrument to resolve problems, especially regarding Iran," Yury Baluyevsky told foreign military attaches.
Following Tehran's refusal to halt its uranium enrichment activities in exchange for a package of incentives, European countries proposed a draft UN Security Council resolution introducing sanctions, including restrictions on nuclear fuel deliveries to the Bushehr plant.
As a veto-wielding permanent Security Council member that has consistently defended Iran's right to generate nuclear power for civilian use, Russia spoke up against the European draft and proposed amendments to soften the document.
"Speaking about sanctions, we should carefully consider any further steps and their consequences," Baluyevsky said.
"If sanctions are imposed, they will freeze prospects to launch talks in the near future. Tehran may reduce and even stop cooperation with the IAEA in response. Generally speaking, we will be gradually cornering Iran, the Security Council and the situation as a whole."
