Why did the Russian's vote in favor of sanctions on Iran?

It seems weird to me that the Russian's would vote in favor of santioning Iran for nuke development. Iran is one of Russia's best friends. We never santion Isreal when votes come up in the U.N.
What do they gain from it? Wouldn't they risk alienating Iran?

Anonymous2006-12-23T16:32:49Z

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This a very good question that I think only those in the back rooms will know. You can be sure there is a back room deal with Iran or Europe/US. One thought would be that Europe would agree to pay Russia's higher gas prices without creating a big stick. Another is Russia has already made a deal with Iran to help the Iranians with their nuclear technology. I am sure both sides have been creative and Russia only knows the whole story.

Webber2006-12-24T05:06:36Z

Sanctions don't hurt anyone but the people, which in turn strengthens the regime. Russia apparently knows this.

Sanctions against Iran make Russia look like responsible world citizens, when in actuality they are strengthening Iran's government.

brooklyn2006-12-24T02:14:37Z

At this point I think sanctions mean nothing. They are false penalties. I'm sure Russia/Iran relations will not change regardless. Its not like they {Iran) will get any support from the USA . The motivation for russia is simply not publicly opposing the USA.

Judith2006-12-24T00:30:35Z

They might be Iran's friend but they're just afraid of what Iran would do with nuclear arms as we are. The Russians aren't stupid.

Anonymous2006-12-24T00:29:21Z

Gotta go with the flow..besides..Russia is the biggest contributator to their studies, but they don't want to pi55 off anyone