Russia opposes Ahtisaari's appointment as UN envoy to Syria

When the UN General Assembly reconvened for speeches after the Saudi resolution on Syria was adopted with 133 in favor, 31 abstaining and 12 against, Inner City Press asked Russian Permanent Representative to the UN Vitaly Churkin what his country thought of Maarti Ahtisaari as a replacement for Kofi Annan as envoy to Syria.

"No, no, he is in deep retirement," Churkin told Inner City Press.

Russia clashed with Ahtisaari over his position on Kosovo, the news agency explains.