"The territory, controlled by terrorists is shrinking (over the time of the Russian mission)," he said. "This proves the mission is qualitatively different. It is more effective. Those are not conclusions of political analysts, but the reality, which may be announced."
He called an "undeniable fact" result of the U.S.-led coalition’s actions, which had been in Iraq and in Syria for 15 months.
"Unfortunately, that mission, which lasted for over a year, has resulted in bigger territories controlled by IS (Islamic State)," he said. "It is for the first time now, thanks to the mission of the Russian Aerospace Force, which is not that long yet, the tendency has changed radically".
- Russian, French military discuss action plan in Syria
The Russian and French military have been discussing already an action plan for Syria, though it is too early yet to announce the coalition is ready to cooperate, said Russia’s presidential press secretary Dmitry Peskov.
The Russian side keeps the door open for any cooperation acceptable for the U.S.-led coalition, he said, adding "as yet, we cannot see, say, mutual readiness."
He continued saying some countries had chosen to leave now the "pressing position" demanding an immediate resignation of Bashar Assad.
"Now that most Syrian territory is controlled by IS, Nusra and other terrorist organisations, it seems unrealistic to organise whatever elections," the press secretary said. "Nor realistic are talks about a political settlement. The only force on the ground, which is fighting terrorism, is the Syrian Armed Forces".
- Russia is adamant about territory integrity of Middle East countries
Russia is for territory and political integrity of the Middle East countries, presidential press secretary Dmitry Peskov told.
"You know, it is a very sensitive region, and thus inarguable provision is to remain - the territory and political integrity of all the countries in the region: both Syria, and Turkey, and Iraq," he said. "Otherwise, the consequences may be catastrophic for the region, which actually neighbours our borders."
The anchorman said about various political and ethnic groups acting in the region, including, for example, the Kurdish militia.
"The Kurdish militia, well, in fact they are fighting most effectively both in northern Iraq, and fighting effectively the Islamic State (a terrorist group outlawed in Russia)," Peskov said. "They are a more realistic force in fighting IS than the ephemeral Free Syrian Army."
The presidential press secretary preferred to leave unanswered a question from the anchorman whether Russia should intensify contacts with the Kurds.
"Here, I have said everything I could," Peskov replied.
[tass.ru]
28/11/15
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The United States and its allies targeted Islamic State groupn (ISIS) with 17 air strikes in Iraq and three in Syria on Friday, the US military said...
ReplyDeleteSeven of the strikes in Iraq hit two ISIS tactical units, buildings and a fighting position near Ramadi, the military said.
The attacks in Syria were near Ayn Isa, hitting a tactical unit and ISIS vehicle, the statement issued on Saturday said.
REUTERS