Burma’s ruling military junta has warned it is ready to “take action” against Buddhist monks leading growing protests for an end to repression within the country, state media have reported.

According to the BBC, Brigadier General Thura Myint Maung, minister for religion, warned them not to break Buddhist “rules and regulations” as Rangoon saw the largest march yet today.

The military leader blamed the protests on “destructive elements” opposed to peace in Burma.

The military government has so far showed restraint against the protests. In the past it has used tactics of brutal repression.

Analysts say that government violence is still a strong possibility. But the nonviolent nature of the protests, the impact of the watching world and the huge public support for change have caused disagreement and confusion in the junta.

US President George W. Bush is set to announce fresh US sanctions on Burmese leaders, the White House says.

The sanctions, which will include a ban on US visas, will be announced during Mr Bush’s speech at the United Nations on Tuesday 25 September 2007, US National Security Adviser Stephen Hadley declared.