The Russian embassy in Syrian capital Damascus has been hit by mortar shells during an at tack, Moscow says.

The Russian Foreign Ministry said two shells hit the building and another two landed close to its perimeter.

No one is believed to have been injured in the attack.

Moscow officials called the incident "a terrorist attack" and said it had been carried out from "positions of terrorist gangs".

Russia has been a staunch ally of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad and has provided him with military support in the war against rebel groups.

"We confirm that Russia's consistent and principled policy of uncompromising fight against terrorists in Syria will be continued," the ministry said.