China, administration and European officials say, is considered likely to accept sanctions if Russia does.

"If the United States places sanctions against Japan we are ready to accept such sanctions," he said.

I can accept sanctions against adults who knowingly have violated immigration laws.

They called for a "new diplomacy", willing to accept military sanctions against aggressive countries.

France is prepared to accept sanctions if they come with a time limit, diplomats said after the meeting.

Copenhagen made it clear that developing countries wish to hinder a climate protection agreement as they are not willing to accept sanctions related to cuts.

Mr. Kennedy said in a statement that he filed the charges after Dr. Perlroth refused to accept such sanctions.

Canada and Brazil have been negotiating the dispute for five years, and Brazil could still agree to pay compensation instead of accepting sanctions.

And there are some who wonder if the U.S. could have persuaded the Europeans to accept even tougher sanctions.

A party that refuses to comply with an order faces criminal or civil penalties and may have to pay damages or accept sanctions.