Putin warns Iran on nuclear arms

Russian leader defends Syria missile deal during Israel visit.
JERUSALEM (AP) -- On the first official visit by a Russian or Soviet leader to Israel, Vladimir Putin soothed his hosts by aiming sharp words at Iran over its nuclear program, but he sparred with his Israeli counterpart over a Syrian missile deal the Israelis see as a threat.Reaching into history in a landmark visit meant to boost improving relations after decades of Soviet-era discord, Putin said Russia and Israel are linked by the Holocaust and the millions of Soviet citizens who died in World War II, as well as Israel's large population of Russian-speaking immigrants.Putin also scored points with Israeli leaders by warning Iran not to seek nuclear weapons."It's necessary for our Iranian partners to reject the creation of nuclear cycle technology," referring to enriching uranium, "and not to hinder placing all its nuclear programs under complete international control," Putin said.