United Nations approval for sanctions on Zimbabwe would have been a "dangerous precedent" for interference in countries` internal affairs, Russia said on Saturday, explaining its sanctions veto.

UN sanctions "would have created a dangerous precedent, opening the way for Security Council interference in the internal affairs of states in connection with one or another political event... which is a gross violation of the UN charter," Russia`s foreign ministry said in a statement.

The comment came after the United States criticised Russia`s use of its veto at a vote on Zimbabwe in the Security Council on Friday.

Russia`s opposition is the latest in a series of tussles between Washington and Moscow over world affairs.

In its statement, Russia said it condemned violence and violations by both sides in Zimbabwe`s election period but judged that "the situation in Zimbabwe does not threaten either regional -- let alone international -- peace and security."

"We are convinced that the solution to Zimbabwe`s internal problems -- and they certainly exist -- should be sought through political dialogue between the Zimbabwean government and opposition," the statement said, adding that Russia`s position was supported by others in Africa.

On Friday the US ambassador to the UN, Zalmay Khalilzad, said Russia`s position was "disturbing" and raised questions about Moscow`s "reliability as a G8 partner."
sections: Politics, World News