Russia’s Lavrov Regrets West Was against Idea of Global Anti-Terror Front in Syria

MOSCOW- Russia’s Foreign Ministry regrets that Russian President Vladimir Putin’s proposal to create a broad international front against terrorism in Syria has found no support in the West, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said in an interview with Spain’s El Pais newspaper, according to Itar Tass.

“From our point of view, this [unity of all forces combating terrorism in Syria] would have been an ideal solution which we have repeatedly called for. Terrorism is a global threat and it could be neutralized through joint efforts, on the solid foundation of international law,” he said answering a question about a coalition of Russia, Syria, Iran and Turkey with the United States and other NATO members against terrorists, Tass said.

 Lavrov recalled that the Russian president put forward an idea of a broad anti-terror front brokered by the United Nations at the UN General Assembly in 2015.

“Unfortunately, it was not supported by Western partners. It is regrettable as terrorists threaten any member of the world community without exception. No one will be able to hide in a safe harbor,” Lavrov emphasized.

According to the Russian top diplomat, Western countries’ military presence in Syria runs counter to international law, “and is actually an invasion in a part of a sovereign state” since they did not receive a corresponding request from Syria’s legitimate government, unlike Russia.

H.M