(http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/MSNBC/Components/Photo/_new/121116-sergei-magnitsky-jsw-8a.photoblog600.jpg)Misha Japaridze / APThe tombstone of lawyer Sergei Magnitsky at a cemetery in Moscow. U.S. lawmakers are expected to vote in a human rights legislation named after Magnitsky that would impose sanctions on Russian officials involved in human rights violations.By ReutersMOSCOW -- Russia increased pressure on U.S. Congress on Friday not to pass legislation that would punish Russian officials for human rights violations, warning Washington that it had prepared tough retaliatory measures.
Congress was due to vote on a bill named after Russian lawyer Sergei Magnitsky later Friday, the third anniversary of his death in detention. The bill is designed to deny visas for officials involved in his imprisonment, abuse or death.
Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov said Russia had already prepared its response but gave no details other than a Foreign Ministry statement on Thursday warning of tough retaliation against "unfriendly and provocative" legislation.
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