MOSCOW, January 23 (RIA Novosti) - Russia wants to prevent Lebanon from being drawn into internal confrontation and discord, a Foreign Ministry spokesman said Tuesday.

Large-scale disorder began in Lebanon earlier in the day when opposition supporters led by Islamist group Hezbollah began burning tires in violent protests that caused two deaths and left over 40 wounded. Opposition supporters demanded the cabinet's resignation.

"Moscow is convinced that a resolution of the complex problems within Lebanon should be found through nationwide dialogue, however difficult this may be," Mikhail Kamynin said.

The diplomat said he hopes the Lebanese authorities will "display restraint and self-control, will be guided by the Lebanese people's highest interests, and will prevent Lebanon from being drawn into domestic confrontation and civil discord."