Originally published Monday, February 28, 2011 at 4:01 AM

Russia's FM knocks no-fly zone for Libya

Russia's top diplomat has ruled out the idea of establishing a no-fly zone over Libya and says world powers should focus instead on implementing sanctions.

The Associated Press

GENEVA —

Russia's top diplomat has ruled out the idea of establishing a no-fly zone over Libya and says world powers should focus instead on implementing sanctions.

Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov told reporters Tuesday that "we need to avoid the superfluous" when asked about the idea of creating a no-fly zone.

Leaders in the U.S., Europe and Australia have suggested the tactic to keep Libyan leader Moammar Gadhafi from bombing his own people.

Lavrov said the world's powers should "concentrate on the full implementation" of the sanctions resolution the U.N. Security Council approved Saturday against Libya.

Russia has veto power on the United Nations Security Council so its approval is needed for a U.N.-mandated no-fly zone.

The United States and European allies intensified efforts to isolate Gadhafi on Monday.

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