英语新闻阅读：叙利亚活动人士号召抗议俄罗斯

英语自学网

　　Syrian opposition activists are calling for a "day of rage" Tuesday to
protest what they see as Russian support for the government of Syrian President
Bashar al-Assad.
        　　On Monday, Russian President Dmitry Medvedev rejected calls from the United
States and Western Europe for increased sanctions against Syria for its violent
crackdown on protesters.
        　　Russian President Dmitry Medvedev said Monday there is no need for
additional pressure on Syria. He also said any possible United Nations
resolution on Syria must be "tough" but "balanced."
        　　Russia has veto power in the U.N. Security Council and can stop the passage
of any resolution against the volatile Middle Eastern nation.
        　　U.S. State Department spokeswoman Victoria Nuland said Monday she "strongly
disagreed" with Mr. Medvedev, saying the U.N. Security Council should "take
stronger action" in imposing sanctions against the Syrian government.
        　　Violence against protesters continued in Syria on Monday. Syrian human
rights activists said security forces killed at least 17 people, mostly around
the central city of Hama.