Russia launches airstrikes in Syria - warning to the US

Created: 06/17/2022, 17:01

By: Marvin Ziegele

An airstrike near the town of Salwah in the Idlib region of Syria.

(Archive photo) © AHMAD AL-ATRASH/AFP

Amid the Ukraine war, Russia warns the US of an imminent airstrike in Syria. 

Damascus - Russia earlier this week warned the US of airstrikes in Syria.

Specifically, Russia wanted to carry out the airstrikes against fighters allied with the United States in southeastern Syria, reports the US news channel CNN.

Russia's threat comes amid rising tensions over the Ukraine conflict.

As a result of the warning, the US informed the Syrian fighters that a Russian airstrike was imminent and advised them to move their positions in Syria.

However, according to CNN, no US forces were near the site intended by Russia for the airstrike.

The Pentagon is trying to avoid an escalation of tensions with Russia, according to two senior defense officials from the US Department of Defense.

This also applies to Syria, where Russia and the USA have been militarily operating side by side for several years.

Syria: Russia warns US of airstrikes

The incident happened near the Al-Tanf garrison in southeastern Syria, where US and Syrian opposition forces have long operated.

The attacks were aimed at positions where US-backed Maghawir al-Thawra fighters were operating.

There were no reports of casualties immediately after the attack.

However, high property damage is suspected.

According to initial US assessments, Russian forces were likely instructed to notify the US in advance.

Still, the Russians may have achieved their goal of sending the message to the US that it can strike without fear of retaliation, an official said.

Russia supports the incumbent ruler Bashar al-Assad in Syria.

Since 2015, Russia has been flying airstrikes in close coordination with the Syrian military.

The United States is leading the coalition against the Islamic State, and a high-ranking member of the IS was recently caught in a raid.

(Marvin Ziegele)