奥巴马倾向于通过外交途径制止叙利亚使用化武

U.S. President Barack Obama says he "overwhelmingly" prefers diplomacy in deterring Syria's use of chemical weapons, as he continues to press Congress to support a military strike.

In a series of television interviews Monday, Mr. Obama expressed skepticism about a new Russian proposal to put Syria's chemical weapons stockpile under international control, but called the plan a potential breakthrough.  He said it would not have materialized without the threat of military action.

Mr. Obama is continuing meetings with members of Congress on Tuesday before giving an evening televised address on the situation in Syria.

He acknowledged Monday there may not be enough support among lawmakers to pass a proposed measure authorizing U.S. military action.  A Senate resolution would give Mr. Obama a maximum of 90 days to carry out an attack, but would not authorize the use of ground troops.