World

Syria regime in new offensive as Putin blasts U.S. for ‘unconstructive position’

Russia said Thursday its warplanes had eased back on airstrikes in Syria as regime forces press a widening ground offensive, while President Vladimir Putin criticized Washington for not cooperating over the conflict. As Moscow and Washington neared agreement on measures to avoid confrontation over Syria, Russia announced that a hotline had been set up with Israel to ensure there would be no clashes between their air forces.

It seems to me that some of our partners have mush for brains and lack a clear understanding of what’s really going on there and what goals they want to achieve. Vladmir Putin

Turkey and Saudi Arabia, two of Assad’s fiercest opponents, warned Russia Friday of the consequences of its foray into the conflict. Turkey said earlier this month that Russian aircraft operating in Syria twice violated the air space of the key NATO member. Washington this week rebuffed Moscow’s suggestion of broader talks on Syria, prompting criticism from Putin on Thursday. However, the Russian Defense Ministry said an “information-sharing” mechanism has been established through a hotline between the Russian command center in Syria and a command post of the Israeli air force.