Accessibility links

Breaking News

Russian 'Aid' Planes Arrive In Syria Amid Concerns Over Russian Military Activity


Syrian state media has reported that two Russian planes carrying 80 tons of humanitarian aid have arrived in the Syrian coastal city of Latakia.

In Moscow, Russia' s Defense Ministry said the humanitarian aid included materials for setting up a tent camp, including beds, mattresses, stoves, water cisterns, and food for more than 1,000 refugees.

The reported aid delivery on September 12 comes amid Western concern over Russia's increased military activity in Syria.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has said Russia is airlifting weapons to Syria and that Russian advisers are training the Syrian Army how to use them.

Washington has warned that the Russian military buildup in Syria could lead to a "confrontation" with the U.S.-led coalition carrying out air strikes against the Islamic State extremist group.

U.S. President Barack Obama said on September 11 that Russia's support of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad was "doomed to fail."

Germany's Foreign Minister Walter Steinmeier warned Russia against bolstering its support for Assad, saying "a situation must not be created that renders joint action by the international community impossible."

Based on reporting by AFP, AP, and Reuters

RFE/RL has been declared an "undesirable organization" by the Russian government.

If you are in Russia or the Russia-controlled parts of Ukraine and hold a Russian passport or are a stateless person residing permanently in Russia or the Russia-controlled parts of Ukraine, please note that you could face fines or imprisonment for sharing, liking, commenting on, or saving our content, or for contacting us.

To find out more, click here.

XS
SM
MD
LG