Moscow has condemned “external forces” for escalating violence in Syria, despite reports that Russia is sending mercenaries to support Syrian troops. The Russian foreign ministry spokesperson blamed outside actors for a recent insurgent offensive in Aleppo led by Islamist militants, while emphasizing support for a counter-attack by Damascus. Fighting has also continued in Hama and Deir Ezzour provinces, with the Syrian army receiving reinforcements and significant losses reported.
The Syrian president, Bashar al-Assad, has relied on support from Moscow and Tehran to maintain control of the country amid a proxy war that began in 2011. Ukrainian military intelligence reported that planned rotations of Russian troops from Syria had been suspended, with low morale among Russian military personnel due to insurgent advances. Private military companies are expected to be sent to Syria to bolster forces, likely drawn from Russia’s Africa Corps.
Russian foreign minister, Sergei Lavrov, is set to meet with counterparts from Iran and Turkey in Qatar for urgent consultations on Syria. Turkey has supported rebel groups in north-western Syria and called for political consultations to end the civil war. President Putin stressed the need to stop the insurgency and restore stability, advocating for Turkey’s involvement in efforts to bring about constitutional order in Syria.
The White Helmets reported that Russian airstrikes in Idlib had put hospitals out of service and led to increased brutality against civilians in north-west Syria. The organization responded to numerous attacks that resulted in civilian casualties, highlighting the dire situation on the ground amidst the ongoing conflict.
Source
Photo credit www.theguardian.com