New York  - The UN Security Council met behind closed doors Thursday to discuss the crisis in Georgia, the first meeting of the powerful body since Russia recognized the independence of the two breakaway provinces at the heart of the military conflict.

Russia's decision on Tuesday to recognize Abkhazia and South Ossetia, contrary to previous Security Council resolutions, drew swift condemnation from the United States and European Union.

But it remained unclear what steps the Security Council could take against Moscow. Belgian ambassador Jan Grauls, whose country holds the Security Council presidency, said there was no unified position after the two hour meeting.

Russia, as one of five permanent members of the council along with Britain, China, France and the United States, holds a veto. (dpa)