Putin describes chemical weapons claims as 'utter nonsense'

Russian President Vladimir Putin has described claims that the Syrian regime used chemical weapons against civilians as "utter nonsense".

He has demanding proof that the Assad regime carried out a chemical attack, which the US claims killed 1400 people.

A team of UN weapons inspectors investigating the claims arrived in Beirut this morning after leaving Syria.

The team's departure increases the likelihood of an American strike against the Syrian regime.

Alexander Lukashevich from Russia's foreign ministry has said threats of military action by the US against Syria are unacceptable.