Updated

Russia says the United Nations Security Council is discussing a draft resolution to address Europe's migrant crisis, likely by authorizing the inspection of suspected migrant ships.

Ambassador Vitaly Churkin says the council "may well" adopt the resolution this month.

Churkin told reporters Wednesday that the draft would be more limited than one earlier this year that would have authorized a European Union mission to inspect and seize suspected migrant smuggling ships in Libya and its territorial waters.

Instead, council members are talking about authorizing such action on the high seas of the Mediterranean. That would not require the blessing of chaotic Libya, which is split into two rival governments.

Many migrants have died in trying to cross the Mediterranean from Libya to Europe.

Russia holds the council presidency this month.