MOSCOW: Russia to Continue Strikes on Terrorist Targets in Syria

HMEIMIM, Syria– Russian Aerospace Forces will continue to deliver airstrikes in Syria against the so-called  “Islamic State” and other terrorist organizations’ facilities, Russian Deputy Defense Minister Nikolai Pankov said Tuesday, according Itar Tass news agency.

“We have reached certain positive results. A real chance to put an end to violence over the years, but it’s too early to speak about victory over terrorism. The Russian aviation group has the task of continuing to carry out airstrikes against terrorist facilities,” Pankov said at the Syrian airbase in an event marking the accomplishment of tasks in Syria by Russian forces.

At the ceremony, also attended by Chief of Syria’s General Staff Ali Abdullah Ayyoub, the military personnel received state awards of Russia and Syria.

“The combat operations by Russia’s air and space group and support units in Syria have earned high appreciation of the supreme commander-in-chief, President Vladimir Putin and Defense Minister Sergey Shoigu,” Pankov said at a special ceremony ending the special mission in Syria.

“Our military and our Syrian colleagues displayed resolution, competence, boldness, courage and heroism,” Pankov said.

Pankov reminded that the ceasefire, which came into effect in Syria on February 27, is not applied to the so-called “Islamic State”, “Jabhat an-Nusra” or other terrorist organizations designated by the UN Security Council.”

President Putin ordered on Monday to start withdrawing the main part of Russia’s forces from Syria as of March 15. He said the tasks assigned to the military were generally fulfilled.

Russia has been carrying out an anti-terror operation in Syria since September 30, 2015 at the request of President Bashar Assad.

H.M