Anniston Star
March 6, 2003

Russia will not stop chemical weapons destruction

By Jason Landers
Star Staff Writer
03-06-2003

Russian disarmament officials say they will not halt operations at that nation's only chemical weapons destruction plant, despite an order that they do so to correct environmental violations.

Monday, the Natural Resources Ministry issued a stop order for the Gorny plant, citing several environmental and permitting violations.

Tuesday, disarmament officials were reported as saying the operation would continue processing weapons while the safety issues are addressed.

According to the Associated Press, disarmament officials said the Ministry's order was for work that will not begin until May.

The Gorny plant started processing chemical weapons in December.

Statements from the disarmament officials seem to contradict the halt order issued Monday by the ministry, the AP reported.."