国际英语新闻:U.S. sanctions against Hezbollah hurts Lebanon: Russian envoy

BEIRUT, Feb. 1 (Xinhua) -- Russian Ambassador to Lebanon Alexander Zasypkin said on Saturday that U.S. sanctions against Hezbollah is hurting Lebanon amid its current crisis, local media reported.

"We should work on uniting the efforts of counties that are keen on keeping Lebanon away from conflicts because the country is currently experiencing a serious crisis," Zasypkin was quoted as saying by Elnashra, an online independent newspaper.

Zasypkin said Russia and France are keen to support Lebanon while the U.S. insists on taking measures against Hezbollah.

"We have to help Lebanon as a government; this is how we can support the country in overcoming its challenges," he said.

Lebanon has recently formed a cabinet supported by the Shiite parties Hezbollah and Amal Movement, in addition to the Free Patriotic Movement.