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Russian airstrikes in Syria: Pentagon says strategy 'doomed to failure' – live Russian airstrikes in Syria: Pentagon says strategy 'doomed to failure' – live
(35 minutes later)
10.38pm BST22:38
Chechen leader cum warlord Ramzan Kadyrov, who has aggressively pursued separatists in the Caucuses at Vladimir Putin’s behest for years, has offered to lend a hand in Syria.
Kadyrov says "unfortunate" only air ops in Syria, promises Chechens will "lead the attack" if there are ground ops http://t.co/DJMT5W2w8Z
Kadyrov would face off with many of his countrymen in Syria should he ever get his wish: hundreds if not thousands of Chechens have joined fighters in Syria, including for Isis.
10.16pm BST22:16
Barack Obama has reached a crossroads in the Middle East thanks to Russia’s aggressive strikes in Syria, the Guardian’s national security editor Spencer Ackerman writes.
Russia’s military resurgence in the Middle East comes as the White House’s own military contribution to the Syrian civil war is collapsing, something even Obama’s former aides are acknowledging. The question now facing Obama is whether he will cut his losses in Syria, an intervention he has never wanted, and leave Vladimir Putin holding the bag.
Putin’s military gambit in Syria is the inverse of Obama’s. It has been rapid where Obama’s is belated, decisive where Obama’s is tentative, and focused where Obama’s is diffuse. What similarities exist concern the two countries’ euphemistic description of their involvement: Russia is claiming an operation against the Islamic State while actually attacking enemies of client Bashar al-Assad, whereas the US is bombing Isis in Syria while treating the country as peripheral to a central conflict in neighboring Iraq.
“Wearing down the US-backed Syrian militants appears easy,” he continues. “Gone are the Pentagon’s 2014 assurances that it would field a 5,000-strong ground force of Syrian ‘moderate’ rebels by now; such comments were replaced with a dramatic admission earlier this month that it has yielded only a handful.”
Speculation is rife that Obama will pivot to such a diplomatic settlement. His speech to the United Nations on Monday included a line about a “managed transition” in Syria to an “inclusive” post-Assad government. It followed a provocative argument from a former White House Syria aide endorsing a “messy compromise” that can accept deferring Assad’s ultimate fate.
Russia’s bombing may aim to strengthen Assad’s hand ahead of any such negotiation and, as a fallback, preserve Russian influence in a post-Assad Syria. Russia may indeed seek an end to the conflict – just one that occurs on Assad and Moscow’s terms.
Russian intentions and results are two different things. The country may not be able to broker an accord at all; it may also fail at suppressing Isis in Syria, a necessary objective for the viability of any Russian-backed Syrian government, with or without Assad. The perils of both objectives – a bloody quagmire – are the sources of Obama’s hesitation in Syria.
Related: Russia's intervention in Syria brings Obama's dilemma to the fore
10.01pm BST22:0110.01pm BST22:01
Kurdish fighters are claiming a victory against Isis in northern Iraq, the Associated Press reports, with peshmerga backed by US air strikes battling jihadi militants near Kirkuk.Kurdish fighters are claiming a victory against Isis in northern Iraq, the Associated Press reports, with peshmerga backed by US air strikes battling jihadi militants near Kirkuk.
The Kurdish peshmerga pushed the militants beyond Ghara Heights and Mount Batiwa, south of Kirkuk, and secured a stretch of a highway which connects Kirkuk to the central city of Samarra, a statement from the Kurdistan Region Security Council said.The Kurdish peshmerga pushed the militants beyond Ghara Heights and Mount Batiwa, south of Kirkuk, and secured a stretch of a highway which connects Kirkuk to the central city of Samarra, a statement from the Kurdistan Region Security Council said.
The villages of Meziriya, Gubebe, Seda, Mohammed Khalil, Qows Kurd, Tal Ward, Khalef and Mansouria all south of Kirkuk were purged of militants, the statement said.The villages of Meziriya, Gubebe, Seda, Mohammed Khalil, Qows Kurd, Tal Ward, Khalef and Mansouria all south of Kirkuk were purged of militants, the statement said.
At least 10 peshmerga fighters died in the operation and another 16 were wounded, according to a senior security official, who spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to brief journalists. The Kurdish government said some militants were seen fleeing toward the contested town of Hawijah.At least 10 peshmerga fighters died in the operation and another 16 were wounded, according to a senior security official, who spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to brief journalists. The Kurdish government said some militants were seen fleeing toward the contested town of Hawijah.
Isis have fallen back against Kurdish forces in recent months, but the combatants have reached an impasse near the Iraqi and Syrian border despite coalition air strikes to support the peshmerga and repeated jihadi attempts to capture Kirkuk’s oil depots.Isis have fallen back against Kurdish forces in recent months, but the combatants have reached an impasse near the Iraqi and Syrian border despite coalition air strikes to support the peshmerga and repeated jihadi attempts to capture Kirkuk’s oil depots.
The US-led coalition released a statement noting three air strikes near Kirkuk on Tuesday, while Isis vowed it would execute any fighters it captured.The US-led coalition released a statement noting three air strikes near Kirkuk on Tuesday, while Isis vowed it would execute any fighters it captured.
9.42pm BST21:429.42pm BST21:42
“If Russian air strikes come as part of a deal with the US, we could expect an end to the Syrian war within six months,” a Syrian university student has told my colleague Mona Mahmood (@monamood) in a phone interview.“If Russian air strikes come as part of a deal with the US, we could expect an end to the Syrian war within six months,” a Syrian university student has told my colleague Mona Mahmood (@monamood) in a phone interview.
“Otherwise the outcome would be disastrous,” said Rami Ali, 23.“Otherwise the outcome would be disastrous,” said Rami Ali, 23.
If the airstrike is not approved by of the Americans, in return, the Americans would support the Syrian countless opposition factions and the fight would be even tougher in a time,we count hours to regain some peace in our country.If the airstrike is not approved by of the Americans, in return, the Americans would support the Syrian countless opposition factions and the fight would be even tougher in a time,we count hours to regain some peace in our country.
The Russian intervention comes at a crucial time – the Syrian army is exhausted by five years of war, and the morale of the soldiers is waning remarkably. Most of the Syrian graduates are reluctant to join the army now after losing one or two members of their family to the war.The Russian intervention comes at a crucial time – the Syrian army is exhausted by five years of war, and the morale of the soldiers is waning remarkably. Most of the Syrian graduates are reluctant to join the army now after losing one or two members of their family to the war.
I myself am thinking about leaving Syria for Sweden as soon as I finish my studies. Syria will need another 20 years to rebuild all the destruction, let alone the destruction of the Syrian people, morally, which might take five or six decades to reform.I myself am thinking about leaving Syria for Sweden as soon as I finish my studies. Syria will need another 20 years to rebuild all the destruction, let alone the destruction of the Syrian people, morally, which might take five or six decades to reform.
The student in Latakia province, where the Russian military has built up the airbase from which its campaign is orchestrated, said he and others struggle with the idea of joining the fight: “It is a useless war.”The student in Latakia province, where the Russian military has built up the airbase from which its campaign is orchestrated, said he and others struggle with the idea of joining the fight: “It is a useless war.”
We hesitate to join the fight out of our frustration and despair. What’s the use of liberating some areas just because of a deal between states like Turkey and Iran? The area would be retaken by the opposition, and my peers and I would be killed. It is a useless war. I would be grateful to the Americans if they can at least stop the flowing of the weapons from Turkey to the terrorists in Syria.We hesitate to join the fight out of our frustration and despair. What’s the use of liberating some areas just because of a deal between states like Turkey and Iran? The area would be retaken by the opposition, and my peers and I would be killed. It is a useless war. I would be grateful to the Americans if they can at least stop the flowing of the weapons from Turkey to the terrorists in Syria.
I hope the Russian air strikes can help secure vital areas, like the Damascus countryside, Homs, the Syrian coast and the road between Latakia and Damascus. After that they can help the Syrian army to liberate other areas taken by the armed factions. We need to find a solution, the situation is unbearable. Life has become so expensive that it’s unaffordable for a lot of people, even with of the killing and violence. There’s no law either – any man with some influence can do whatever he wants without punishment. The war has weakened law and order in Syria.I hope the Russian air strikes can help secure vital areas, like the Damascus countryside, Homs, the Syrian coast and the road between Latakia and Damascus. After that they can help the Syrian army to liberate other areas taken by the armed factions. We need to find a solution, the situation is unbearable. Life has become so expensive that it’s unaffordable for a lot of people, even with of the killing and violence. There’s no law either – any man with some influence can do whatever he wants without punishment. The war has weakened law and order in Syria.
Ali said he has not personally seen any Russians in his town, and nor does Syrian TV mention their presence. “All the states fighting in Syria are doing it for their own interests.”Ali said he has not personally seen any Russians in his town, and nor does Syrian TV mention their presence. “All the states fighting in Syria are doing it for their own interests.”
I’m pretty sure the Russian are not helping us for nothing but for their share in gas and oil. Syria has become more for foreigners more than for its people. The Russian air strike will complicate the situation, and lots of innocent people might be killed too since many terrorists are hiding among residential areas.I’m pretty sure the Russian are not helping us for nothing but for their share in gas and oil. Syria has become more for foreigners more than for its people. The Russian air strike will complicate the situation, and lots of innocent people might be killed too since many terrorists are hiding among residential areas.
9.29pm BST21:299.29pm BST21:29
Nato chief Jens Stoltenberg is “concerned” by Russia’s actions, Reuters reports, saying the alliance commander is particularly worried about the crowded airspace over Syria, where nearly a dozen countries are now flying missions.Nato chief Jens Stoltenberg is “concerned” by Russia’s actions, Reuters reports, saying the alliance commander is particularly worried about the crowded airspace over Syria, where nearly a dozen countries are now flying missions.
“I’m concerned about the reports saying that the Russian air strikes were not targeted against ISIL,” NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said during a visit to the United States.“I’m concerned about the reports saying that the Russian air strikes were not targeted against ISIL,” NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said during a visit to the United States.
“I’m especially concerned because there has been no real effort by the Russian side to deconflict the Russian air strikes in Syria with the ongoing US-led coalition fighting ISIL,” he said, using an acronym for Islamic State.“I’m especially concerned because there has been no real effort by the Russian side to deconflict the Russian air strikes in Syria with the ongoing US-led coalition fighting ISIL,” he said, using an acronym for Islamic State.
To “deconflict”, in military parlance, is to ensure that, in this case, Russian aircraft do not accidentally clash in any way with Western warplanes.To “deconflict”, in military parlance, is to ensure that, in this case, Russian aircraft do not accidentally clash in any way with Western warplanes.
Stoltenberg said Russia had informed the Western alliance that Moscow was providing military assistance to Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. But he called on Russia to seek a diplomatic end to the Syrian civil war.Stoltenberg said Russia had informed the Western alliance that Moscow was providing military assistance to Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. But he called on Russia to seek a diplomatic end to the Syrian civil war.
“I urge Russia to play a constructive and cooperative role in the fight against ISIL and to strive for a negotiated political solution to the conflict. To support Assad will not help,” Stoltenberg said.“I urge Russia to play a constructive and cooperative role in the fight against ISIL and to strive for a negotiated political solution to the conflict. To support Assad will not help,” Stoltenberg said.
9.23pm BST21:239.23pm BST21:23
Russian forces in two Syrian bases, Tartus and Latakia.Russian forces in two Syrian bases, Tartus and Latakia.
9.05pm BST21:059.05pm BST21:05
SummarySummary
Updated at 9.12pm BSTUpdated at 9.12pm BST
8.51pm BST20:518.51pm BST20:51
Syrian opposition chief: strikes killed 36 civiliansSyrian opposition chief: strikes killed 36 civilians
Russian air strikes have killed 36 civilians, including five children, the head of the Syrian opposition has told AFP.Russian air strikes have killed 36 civilians, including five children, the head of the Syrian opposition has told AFP.
“The Russians struck northern Homs today and killed 36 innocent people,” said Khoja, head of the Syrian National Coalition.“The Russians struck northern Homs today and killed 36 innocent people,” said Khoja, head of the Syrian National Coalition.
The opposition had received the names of all 36 victims, including five children from the central Syrian province of Homs, and were waiting detailed reports from elsewhere, Khoja said.The opposition had received the names of all 36 victims, including five children from the central Syrian province of Homs, and were waiting detailed reports from elsewhere, Khoja said.
Updated at 10.07pm BSTUpdated at 10.07pm BST
8.41pm BST20:418.41pm BST20:41
Russian deputy prime minister Dmitri Rogozin has posted a video to his Facebook page that appears to show bombs and missiles falling on Syria.Russian deputy prime minister Dmitri Rogozin has posted a video to his Facebook page that appears to show bombs and missiles falling on Syria.
A hawkish politician, Rogozin captioned the video: “Wishing our guys luck and success!”A hawkish politician, Rogozin captioned the video: “Wishing our guys luck and success!”
8.28pm BST20:288.28pm BST20:28
Russian air strikes in Syria.Russian air strikes in Syria.
8.21pm BST20:218.21pm BST20:21
8.04pm BST20:048.04pm BST20:04
“My happiness about the Russian air strike today is indescribable,” a Syrian businessman and support of Assad has told my colleague Mona Mahmood (@monamood) in a phone interview.“My happiness about the Russian air strike today is indescribable,” a Syrian businessman and support of Assad has told my colleague Mona Mahmood (@monamood) in a phone interview.
Ibraheim Al-Khal, 50, said the news “is just fantastic, and means a lot to me and all the Syrian people who support their army and president Bashar al-Assad. However, I feel it’s too late, that Russian planes should’ve been in Syrian since the first day of the war. It could have changed all the balance of power.Ibraheim Al-Khal, 50, said the news “is just fantastic, and means a lot to me and all the Syrian people who support their army and president Bashar al-Assad. However, I feel it’s too late, that Russian planes should’ve been in Syrian since the first day of the war. It could have changed all the balance of power.
I have lost my nephew who was a soldier in the Syrian army, all our sons are at the war fronts fighting. We need to see an end for this useless war and declare the victory of the Syrian army.I have lost my nephew who was a soldier in the Syrian army, all our sons are at the war fronts fighting. We need to see an end for this useless war and declare the victory of the Syrian army.
We have been fighting terror in Syria for more than five years now but the attack against our country has highly increased lately. We need the Russians’ help and support. It is not an interference, as the opposition call it. We asked the Russians to come so help our army, who is badly in need of air cover, can advance in areas occupied by the terrorists. The Russian military planes are very modern and can’t be spotted by IS or Jabahat-al-Nusra fighters, not like the Syrian planes that fly at limited altitude and are always under fire.We have been fighting terror in Syria for more than five years now but the attack against our country has highly increased lately. We need the Russians’ help and support. It is not an interference, as the opposition call it. We asked the Russians to come so help our army, who is badly in need of air cover, can advance in areas occupied by the terrorists. The Russian military planes are very modern and can’t be spotted by IS or Jabahat-al-Nusra fighters, not like the Syrian planes that fly at limited altitude and are always under fire.
The businessman from near Damascus said that although he knows “lots of innocent civilians might be targeted by these air strikes aimed at terrorists, I believe it is a problem of the locals who provided havens.”The businessman from near Damascus said that although he knows “lots of innocent civilians might be targeted by these air strikes aimed at terrorists, I believe it is a problem of the locals who provided havens.”
In my district, Al-Nabak, we have kicked out all the so called opposition factions out and fought with the Syrian army to liberate our district and now, we have peace. We have formed local protection units to guard our district and lift up the burden of the Syrian army who need to liberate other areas in Syria.In my district, Al-Nabak, we have kicked out all the so called opposition factions out and fought with the Syrian army to liberate our district and now, we have peace. We have formed local protection units to guard our district and lift up the burden of the Syrian army who need to liberate other areas in Syria.
The United States tried its best to help the moderate opposition but they could not find any for more than five years now. All these groups of opposition are hardline fighters. They take the US money to arm themselves and kill the Syrian people. Only now, the US has recognized its mistake. I call it US stupidity. The US donated more than $50 million to the Free Syrian Army groups, and the result is still appalling. The Russian air strikes renewed our hopes in getting back our peace.The United States tried its best to help the moderate opposition but they could not find any for more than five years now. All these groups of opposition are hardline fighters. They take the US money to arm themselves and kill the Syrian people. Only now, the US has recognized its mistake. I call it US stupidity. The US donated more than $50 million to the Free Syrian Army groups, and the result is still appalling. The Russian air strikes renewed our hopes in getting back our peace.
Updated at 8.05pm BSTUpdated at 8.05pm BST
7.54pm BST19:547.54pm BST19:54
Even Kremlin spokesperson Dmitri Peskov seems unclear about whom Russian warplanes are targeting, per the Times of London’s Tom Parfitt and ABC’s Alexander Marquardt.Even Kremlin spokesperson Dmitri Peskov seems unclear about whom Russian warplanes are targeting, per the Times of London’s Tom Parfitt and ABC’s Alexander Marquardt.
Asked if Russian planes will bomb the Free Syrian Army, Putin's spox says: “Does it exist? Haven’t the majority of them joined Isil?"Asked if Russian planes will bomb the Free Syrian Army, Putin's spox says: “Does it exist? Haven’t the majority of them joined Isil?"
Putin spox Peskov: "Those [groups] that are not terrorists, that have not gone over to the side of ISIS...Russia is not targeting."Putin spox Peskov: "Those [groups] that are not terrorists, that have not gone over to the side of ISIS...Russia is not targeting."
7.47pm BST19:477.47pm BST19:47
Secretary of state John Kerry takes his case out of the UN and into the cavern of public opinion.Secretary of state John Kerry takes his case out of the UN and into the cavern of public opinion.
We would have grave concerns should #Russia strike areas where ISIL-affiliated targets are not operating.We would have grave concerns should #Russia strike areas where ISIL-affiliated targets are not operating.
Coalition will continue air ops as we have from very beginning. We have conducted strikes against ISIL targets in #Syria over last 24 hours.Coalition will continue air ops as we have from very beginning. We have conducted strikes against ISIL targets in #Syria over last 24 hours.
If #Russia's actions reflect a genuine commitment to defeat ISIL, we are prepared to welcome those efforts.If #Russia's actions reflect a genuine commitment to defeat ISIL, we are prepared to welcome those efforts.
The US supports any genuine effort to fight ISIL, however we will not be confused in our fight against ISIL with support for Assad.The US supports any genuine effort to fight ISIL, however we will not be confused in our fight against ISIL with support for Assad.
7.44pm BST19:447.44pm BST19:44
Carter says careless intervention in Syria could put Russians, saying they could “find themselves in the bullseye” of terrorism and noting the country’s “bitter” history with jihadi groups.Carter says careless intervention in Syria could put Russians, saying they could “find themselves in the bullseye” of terrorism and noting the country’s “bitter” history with jihadi groups.
He concludes his remarks by saying that the air strikes did not take him aback, however, despite the apparent lack of much warning from Moscow to Washington.He concludes his remarks by saying that the air strikes did not take him aback, however, despite the apparent lack of much warning from Moscow to Washington.
“They have said quite clearly that they intend to deploy forces in Syria and conduct strikes there, and they have done that,” Carter said. “And if you’re asking me whether I’m surprised by that, I’m not, because they’ve been saying for a couple of weeks for now that they’re going to do that.”“They have said quite clearly that they intend to deploy forces in Syria and conduct strikes there, and they have done that,” Carter said. “And if you’re asking me whether I’m surprised by that, I’m not, because they’ve been saying for a couple of weeks for now that they’re going to do that.”
7.34pm BST19:347.34pm BST19:34
Carter says that Russia’s strategy is inherently contradictory, and that the US intends “to continue our air operations unimpeded”.Carter says that Russia’s strategy is inherently contradictory, and that the US intends “to continue our air operations unimpeded”.
By “supporting Assad and thereby seemingly taking on everybody who is fighting Assad, you’re taking on the whole rest of the country of Syria,” he says.By “supporting Assad and thereby seemingly taking on everybody who is fighting Assad, you’re taking on the whole rest of the country of Syria,” he says.
“That is not our position. We believe that at least some parts of the anti-Assad opposition belong in the political process.”“That is not our position. We believe that at least some parts of the anti-Assad opposition belong in the political process.”
Carter cannot confirm whether Russian air strikes have killed civilians, but he says “yet again that is why this kind of action … will backfire”.Carter cannot confirm whether Russian air strikes have killed civilians, but he says “yet again that is why this kind of action … will backfire”.
He says the US is “exceptionally careful at trying to avoid civilian casualties”, which is “something that requires a lot of care and practice and experience.”He says the US is “exceptionally careful at trying to avoid civilian casualties”, which is “something that requires a lot of care and practice and experience.”
7.23pm BST19:237.23pm BST19:23
Pentagon: Russians 'appear not to strike Isis'Pentagon: Russians 'appear not to strike Isis'
Secretary of defense Ash Carter has told reporters: “It does appear that they were in areas where there probably were not Isis forces.”Secretary of defense Ash Carter has told reporters: “It does appear that they were in areas where there probably were not Isis forces.”
Carter says the current Russian approach is “doomed to failure”, and that “this kind of action will inevitably to simply inflame the civil war in Syria.”Carter says the current Russian approach is “doomed to failure”, and that “this kind of action will inevitably to simply inflame the civil war in Syria.”
“And therefore it’s ill advised to take this kind of action in support of Assad only without support of a political answer there.”“And therefore it’s ill advised to take this kind of action in support of Assad only without support of a political answer there.”
He declines to make any definitive statement about the first Russian strikes, however.He declines to make any definitive statement about the first Russian strikes, however.
“I don’t want to go into detail about that at this time, but the reason, one of the reasons why the Russian position is contradictory is that exactly the potential for them to strike, as they may well have, in places where Isil is not present. Others are present.”“I don’t want to go into detail about that at this time, but the reason, one of the reasons why the Russian position is contradictory is that exactly the potential for them to strike, as they may well have, in places where Isil is not present. Others are present.”
Carter also scolds his Russian military and diplomatic counterparts, saying their dealings with the US over Syria were “unprofessional”.Carter also scolds his Russian military and diplomatic counterparts, saying their dealings with the US over Syria were “unprofessional”.
“I have been dealing with them for a long time and this is not the kind of behavior that we would expect, professionally, from the Russian military.”“I have been dealing with them for a long time and this is not the kind of behavior that we would expect, professionally, from the Russian military.”
He says he would expect “a military communication that is less unprofessional than a drop in.”He says he would expect “a military communication that is less unprofessional than a drop in.”
Updated at 8.07pm BSTUpdated at 8.07pm BST
7.12pm BST19:127.12pm BST19:12
Syrian activists have directly contradicted the claim by Russia’s ministry of defense that it has targeted Isis militants, my colleague Kareem Shaheen reports from Beirut.Syrian activists have directly contradicted the claim by Russia’s ministry of defense that it has targeted Isis militants, my colleague Kareem Shaheen reports from Beirut.
The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a network with wide contacts inside Syria, assert that the airstrikes did not target Isis.The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a network with wide contacts inside Syria, assert that the airstrikes did not target Isis.
Instead targeted areas under the control of moderate opposition groups as well as Jabhat al-Nusra and Ahrar al-Sham, and condemned the airstrikes as Russia participating “directly in the killing of the Syrian people”.Instead targeted areas under the control of moderate opposition groups as well as Jabhat al-Nusra and Ahrar al-Sham, and condemned the airstrikes as Russia participating “directly in the killing of the Syrian people”.
President Khaled Khoja of the Syrian National Coalition (SNC), the exiled opposition, has meanwhile condemned Russia’s actions in a statement.President Khaled Khoja of the Syrian National Coalition (SNC), the exiled opposition, has meanwhile condemned Russia’s actions in a statement.
I condemn Russia’s military aggression in Syria today. Russia is not fighting ISIS. It is targeting civilians in communities that have rejected ISIS for the past year. It is using its military force to support the Assad regime’s war against civilians. And it risks implicating itself in war crimes.I condemn Russia’s military aggression in Syria today. Russia is not fighting ISIS. It is targeting civilians in communities that have rejected ISIS for the past year. It is using its military force to support the Assad regime’s war against civilians. And it risks implicating itself in war crimes.
The international community should condemn Russia and take urgent action to protect Syrian civilians through the enforcement of a ban on aerial bombardment.The international community should condemn Russia and take urgent action to protect Syrian civilians through the enforcement of a ban on aerial bombardment.
I am writing to the Security Council today to demand urgent action.”I am writing to the Security Council today to demand urgent action.”
Khoja is in New York for the UN General Assembly, arguing that the US-led coalition should enforce a no-fly zone over Syria.Khoja is in New York for the UN General Assembly, arguing that the US-led coalition should enforce a no-fly zone over Syria.
6.52pm BST18:526.52pm BST18:52
Russian defense ministry: strikes targeted IsisRussian defense ministry: strikes targeted Isis
Air strikes hit “territory of the international terrorist group Isil”, Russia’s ministry of defense has said in a statement that also publishes video of a strike online.Air strikes hit “territory of the international terrorist group Isil”, Russia’s ministry of defense has said in a statement that also publishes video of a strike online.
Russian warplanes struck eight targets, the ministry said, including “caches of weapons and ammunition, fuel and oil materials, command centers, and means of transport used by the Isil militants. All the targets were struck.Russian warplanes struck eight targets, the ministry said, including “caches of weapons and ammunition, fuel and oil materials, command centers, and means of transport used by the Isil militants. All the targets were struck.
“Targets such as a command point of the militants and a terrorist headquarters located in a mountainous area, were completely destroyed.”“Targets such as a command point of the militants and a terrorist headquarters located in a mountainous area, were completely destroyed.”
The YouTube video’s title says that the strikes took place “in the area of the terrorist group Isil”.The YouTube video’s title says that the strikes took place “in the area of the terrorist group Isil”.
Updated at 8.08pm BSTUpdated at 8.08pm BST
6.48pm BST18:486.48pm BST18:48
Mixing metaphors, Earnest has suggested that Russia’s military campaign in Syria more of a desperate measure to save a proxy state than it is an effort to eradicate terrorism.Mixing metaphors, Earnest has suggested that Russia’s military campaign in Syria more of a desperate measure to save a proxy state than it is an effort to eradicate terrorism.
“Russia is not flexing its muscles when it comes to Syria, right now they are trying to prop up an investment when its about to go south,” Earnest said. “We’ve made clear that we think the Assad regime is a losing bet.”“Russia is not flexing its muscles when it comes to Syria, right now they are trying to prop up an investment when its about to go south,” Earnest said. “We’ve made clear that we think the Assad regime is a losing bet.”
He reiterates one last time that the Obama administration would be glad to work with the Kremlin – if they can agree to terms.He reiterates one last time that the Obama administration would be glad to work with the Kremlin – if they can agree to terms.
“We would welcome a constructive Russian contribution to the counter Isil campaign. There are clearly priorities that we share,” he said. “The leaders of both nations recognize that there is a fundamental political problem inside Syria that has led to this chaos.”“We would welcome a constructive Russian contribution to the counter Isil campaign. There are clearly priorities that we share,” he said. “The leaders of both nations recognize that there is a fundamental political problem inside Syria that has led to this chaos.”
6.41pm BST18:416.41pm BST18:41
At the White House, spokesperson Josh Earnest says that despite Vladimir Putin’s support for Bashar al-Assad, he thinks the Russian president believes “there is the need for some kind of functioning opposition” in Syria.At the White House, spokesperson Josh Earnest says that despite Vladimir Putin’s support for Bashar al-Assad, he thinks the Russian president believes “there is the need for some kind of functioning opposition” in Syria.
“President Putin, in the context of his meeting with president Obama, noted the importance of a political transition inside Syrian,” Earnest said. “At some level there’s going to have to be more of a political contribution from the opposition.”“President Putin, in the context of his meeting with president Obama, noted the importance of a political transition inside Syrian,” Earnest said. “At some level there’s going to have to be more of a political contribution from the opposition.”
Earnest conceded that Putin is “not willing to make the same conclusion, the same observation,” that Assad should step down.Earnest conceded that Putin is “not willing to make the same conclusion, the same observation,” that Assad should step down.
But he deflects questions about what the White House thinks the Kremlin hopes to achieve in Syria, saying: “it does seem unwise to start making those kinds of unfirm conclusions based on military strikes that have just taken place in the last few hours.”But he deflects questions about what the White House thinks the Kremlin hopes to achieve in Syria, saying: “it does seem unwise to start making those kinds of unfirm conclusions based on military strikes that have just taken place in the last few hours.”
Updated at 8.12pm BSTUpdated at 8.12pm BST
6.31pm BST18:316.31pm BST18:31
'Unprecedented destruction' in Syrian town'Unprecedented destruction' in Syrian town
“There is a state of terror and fear among the people today that has not happened before,” a resident of Talbiseh, one of the places hit by the first Russian strikes, has told my colleague Kareem Shaheen.“There is a state of terror and fear among the people today that has not happened before,” a resident of Talbiseh, one of the places hit by the first Russian strikes, has told my colleague Kareem Shaheen.
Two air strikes hit primarily residential parts of the town, the resident said, killing nearly 20 people, including women and children. He said he expects casualties to increase as people search for bodies and survivors in the rubble.Two air strikes hit primarily residential parts of the town, the resident said, killing nearly 20 people, including women and children. He said he expects casualties to increase as people search for bodies and survivors in the rubble.
The resident also said that the air strikes were followed by an artillery barrage from the regime and barrel bombs:“The airstrikes caused unprecedented destruction.”The resident also said that the air strikes were followed by an artillery barrage from the regime and barrel bombs:“The airstrikes caused unprecedented destruction.”
Resident of Talbiseh, town struck by Russia: "There is a state of terror and fear among the people today that has not happened before."Resident of Talbiseh, town struck by Russia: "There is a state of terror and fear among the people today that has not happened before."
Several very graphic videos have also emerged on social media, showing children allegedly wounded or killed in Talbiseh.Several very graphic videos have also emerged on social media, showing children allegedly wounded or killed in Talbiseh.
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Earnest says “the overriding priority” of US strategy in Syria is to protect US national security interests, which he describes as strikes against Isis leaders and preventing extremists from gaining “a safe haven” amid the chaos of the Syrian civil war.Earnest says “the overriding priority” of US strategy in Syria is to protect US national security interests, which he describes as strikes against Isis leaders and preventing extremists from gaining “a safe haven” amid the chaos of the Syrian civil war.
He says “the second priority has been the effort that has been made by the United States and by our coalition partners” to support opposition groups, including the Kurds, Syrian Arabs, and Turkmen. Earnest concedes that a separate, disastrous training program to ready rebels in Syria “has not performed well”.He says “the second priority has been the effort that has been made by the United States and by our coalition partners” to support opposition groups, including the Kurds, Syrian Arabs, and Turkmen. Earnest concedes that a separate, disastrous training program to ready rebels in Syria “has not performed well”.
But he repeats: “There’s no military solution that can be imposed by Russia or anybody else that can create resolution inside Syria.”But he repeats: “There’s no military solution that can be imposed by Russia or anybody else that can create resolution inside Syria.”
The US will not “commit military personnel to a drawn out offensive ground operation against Isil or against anybody else inside of Syria,” he adds, saying that the coalition can rely on Kurdish, Syrian and Turkmen opposition groups.The US will not “commit military personnel to a drawn out offensive ground operation against Isil or against anybody else inside of Syria,” he adds, saying that the coalition can rely on Kurdish, Syrian and Turkmen opposition groups.
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Back at the White House, spokesperson Josh Earnest suggests that Vladimir Putin did not give Barack Obama warning about his intentions to begin air strikes in Syria.Back at the White House, spokesperson Josh Earnest suggests that Vladimir Putin did not give Barack Obama warning about his intentions to begin air strikes in Syria.
“We have long said we would welcome constructive Russian coordination,” Earnest says, before qualifying that the talks between US and Russian militaries will be purely tactical: “to ensure that our military activities and the military activities of coalition partners would be safely” conducted.“We have long said we would welcome constructive Russian coordination,” Earnest says, before qualifying that the talks between US and Russian militaries will be purely tactical: “to ensure that our military activities and the military activities of coalition partners would be safely” conducted.
.@PressSec says Obama/Putin discussion was not at "operational level" so Putin didn't mention Russia was about to bomb targets in Syria.@PressSec says Obama/Putin discussion was not at "operational level" so Putin didn't mention Russia was about to bomb targets in Syria
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At the UN Security Council, UK foreign secretary Philip Hammond has described Russia’s military actions in Syria as a sort of geopolitical poker game with the US, my colleague Julian Borger (@julianborger) reports.At the UN Security Council, UK foreign secretary Philip Hammond has described Russia’s military actions in Syria as a sort of geopolitical poker game with the US, my colleague Julian Borger (@julianborger) reports.
Hammond’s take on the timing of the Russian military gambit in Syria, rapidly building up a significant military presence in Tartus and Latakia over the course of this month, was that it was to pre-empt an expected fresh initiative from Washington.Hammond’s take on the timing of the Russian military gambit in Syria, rapidly building up a significant military presence in Tartus and Latakia over the course of this month, was that it was to pre-empt an expected fresh initiative from Washington.
The foreign secretary said that until mid-September “all the bandwidth” of the Obama administration had been used on pushing the Iran nuclear deal through Congress, leading up to the failure of the Republicans to get a vote of disapproval.The foreign secretary said that until mid-September “all the bandwidth” of the Obama administration had been used on pushing the Iran nuclear deal through Congress, leading up to the failure of the Republicans to get a vote of disapproval.
“From that moment, the American system visibly swung to engaging the Syrian problem The Russians will have sensed that too and I think their move is partly a reflection that the regime has been seriously on the back foot in the past few months and also a sense the Americans were preparing for a new initiative and so Putin has put down his chips on the table.”“From that moment, the American system visibly swung to engaging the Syrian problem The Russians will have sensed that too and I think their move is partly a reflection that the regime has been seriously on the back foot in the past few months and also a sense the Americans were preparing for a new initiative and so Putin has put down his chips on the table.”
But the meeting is turning into “a dialogue of the deaf”, Julian continues, about the central problem of the Syrian civil war: Bashar al-Assad. Before it began, however, Hammond said that talks with moscow would at least continue.But the meeting is turning into “a dialogue of the deaf”, Julian continues, about the central problem of the Syrian civil war: Bashar al-Assad. Before it began, however, Hammond said that talks with moscow would at least continue.
“Although we are far apart, I don’t think we are at the point where anyone feels there is no point in discussing further with the Russians. We all feel there it is worth exploring whether there are steps we can take together which might lead down the line, to accommodating the different positions.”“Although we are far apart, I don’t think we are at the point where anyone feels there is no point in discussing further with the Russians. We all feel there it is worth exploring whether there are steps we can take together which might lead down the line, to accommodating the different positions.”
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White House: Russian military cannot succeed aloneWhite House: Russian military cannot succeed alone
Russia’s campaign in Syria will succeed no more than military solutions in Iraq or Afghanistan, press secretary Josh Earnest has told reporters in a briefing at the White House.Russia’s campaign in Syria will succeed no more than military solutions in Iraq or Afghanistan, press secretary Josh Earnest has told reporters in a briefing at the White House.
“Russia will not succeed in imposing a military solution any more than the United States was successful in imposing a military solution in Iraq a decade ago, and certainly any more than Russia was able to impose a military solution in Afghanistan three decades ago,” Earnest said.“Russia will not succeed in imposing a military solution any more than the United States was successful in imposing a military solution in Iraq a decade ago, and certainly any more than Russia was able to impose a military solution in Afghanistan three decades ago,” Earnest said.
He also said that the increased Russian military presence in Syria “is an indication of how concerned they are of losing influence in the one client state they have in the Middle East.”He also said that the increased Russian military presence in Syria “is an indication of how concerned they are of losing influence in the one client state they have in the Middle East.”
Earnest ducks questions about whom the Russian air strikes have targeted, saying that the Defense Department will offer a briefing at 2pm and “is obviously reviewing the ongoing Russian military activity inside of Syria.”Earnest ducks questions about whom the Russian air strikes have targeted, saying that the Defense Department will offer a briefing at 2pm and “is obviously reviewing the ongoing Russian military activity inside of Syria.”
He says that when Barack Obama and Vladimir Putin met earlier this week they “agreed that it was a priority for both coutnries that tactical, practical conversations between our militaries take place”.He says that when Barack Obama and Vladimir Putin met earlier this week they “agreed that it was a priority for both coutnries that tactical, practical conversations between our militaries take place”.
“US military officials have been in touch with their Russian counterparts already,” he added. But it is “too early to say what targets they were aiming at and what targets were hit,” he adds.“US military officials have been in touch with their Russian counterparts already,” he added. But it is “too early to say what targets they were aiming at and what targets were hit,” he adds.
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On YouTube and social media, Syrians have been posting videos that, while unverified, appear to show Russian strikes and their consequences, my colleague Kareem Shaheen has rounded up several while reporting from Beirut.On YouTube and social media, Syrians have been posting videos that, while unverified, appear to show Russian strikes and their consequences, my colleague Kareem Shaheen has rounded up several while reporting from Beirut.
One appears to show Russian warplanes at a distance; a second shows the aftermath of an attack in Homs, with plumes of smoke, ruined homes and someone declaring the “criminality” of the Kremlin. A third video shows civilians pulling victims out from under rubble, and in a fourth a Syrian rebel with the group known as “Tajammu al Izzah” claims that his headquarters was targetd.One appears to show Russian warplanes at a distance; a second shows the aftermath of an attack in Homs, with plumes of smoke, ruined homes and someone declaring the “criminality” of the Kremlin. A third video shows civilians pulling victims out from under rubble, and in a fourth a Syrian rebel with the group known as “Tajammu al Izzah” claims that his headquarters was targetd.
Russian foreign ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova has denied the reports, telling LifeNews television channel that the reports of civilian casualties are part of an “information war”.Russian foreign ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova has denied the reports, telling LifeNews television channel that the reports of civilian casualties are part of an “information war”.
“All this is the same sort of information attack, the same sort of information war, of which we hear so many times and which, it appears, someone prepared well,” she said.“All this is the same sort of information attack, the same sort of information war, of which we hear so many times and which, it appears, someone prepared well,” she said.
Homs journalist says Russian airstrikes are a message to the moderate opposition that "we will fight you under guise of fighting terrorism."Homs journalist says Russian airstrikes are a message to the moderate opposition that "we will fight you under guise of fighting terrorism."
5.36pm BST17:365.36pm BST17:36
Things are decidedly less diplomatic at the Pentagon, according to the Daily Beast’s national security correspondent.Things are decidedly less diplomatic at the Pentagon, according to the Daily Beast’s national security correspondent.
Overheard at the Pentagon: "Right now, we are Putin's prison bitch."Overheard at the Pentagon: "Right now, we are Putin's prison bitch."
Defense secretary Ash Carter is scheduled to brief reporters at 2pm ET; earlier this week Carter spoke with his Russian counterpart, Sergei Shoigu, about the possibility of coordinating in Syria.Defense secretary Ash Carter is scheduled to brief reporters at 2pm ET; earlier this week Carter spoke with his Russian counterpart, Sergei Shoigu, about the possibility of coordinating in Syria.
But Russia only gave the US an hour’s notice, an official has told the BBC’s Barbara Plett.But Russia only gave the US an hour’s notice, an official has told the BBC’s Barbara Plett.
US official says US given hour's notice before #Russia began airstrikes in #SyriaUS official says US given hour's notice before #Russia began airstrikes in #Syria
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Russia is also ready to open “standing channels of communication” with the US-led coalition, foreign minister Sergei Lavrov said on Wednesday.Russia is also ready to open “standing channels of communication” with the US-led coalition, foreign minister Sergei Lavrov said on Wednesday.
We have informed the authorities of the United States and other members of the coalition created by the Americans and are ready to forge standing channels of communication to ensure the maximum effective fight against the terrorist groups,” Lavrov told the UN Security Council.We have informed the authorities of the United States and other members of the coalition created by the Americans and are ready to forge standing channels of communication to ensure the maximum effective fight against the terrorist groups,” Lavrov told the UN Security Council.
Russia circulated a draft council resolution that President Vladimir Putin has said would be “aimed at coordinating the actions of all forces that confront Islamic State.” Lavrov said it would be discussed over the next month.Russia circulated a draft council resolution that President Vladimir Putin has said would be “aimed at coordinating the actions of all forces that confront Islamic State.” Lavrov said it would be discussed over the next month.
But Lavrov added: “Mindful of the growth of the threat posed by Isis there is a need now to forge practical cooperation of the activities of all forces which are countering terrorism.”But Lavrov added: “Mindful of the growth of the threat posed by Isis there is a need now to forge practical cooperation of the activities of all forces which are countering terrorism.”
5.22pm BST17:225.22pm BST17:22
Kerry: US prepared to work with Russia and IranKerry: US prepared to work with Russia and Iran
The United States is “prepared to work with any nation, including Russia and Iran” in resolving the Syrian crisis, Kerry says, but he re-asserts that Bashar al-Assad must step down.The United States is “prepared to work with any nation, including Russia and Iran” in resolving the Syrian crisis, Kerry says, but he re-asserts that Bashar al-Assad must step down.
“The vast majority of states around this table know that the Isil forces, Isil itself, cannot be defeated so long as Bashar al-Assad remains [in power] in Syria.”“The vast majority of states around this table know that the Isil forces, Isil itself, cannot be defeated so long as Bashar al-Assad remains [in power] in Syria.”
“It cannot happen because of who has lined up with whom,” he continues, and because of how the conflict began.“It cannot happen because of who has lined up with whom,” he continues, and because of how the conflict began.
“This fight began when young people, young Syrians, looking for nothing but a future,” Kerry says, went out to demonstrate “and Assad sent his thugs out to beat them up.“This fight began when young people, young Syrians, looking for nothing but a future,” Kerry says, went out to demonstrate “and Assad sent his thugs out to beat them up.
Parents were outraged by the fact that their children demonstrating peacefully were beaten up. And they went out with their kids and they were met by bullets. And that is how this whole thing began.Parents were outraged by the fact that their children demonstrating peacefully were beaten up. And they went out with their kids and they were met by bullets. And that is how this whole thing began.
[Syrians were] met with repression, with torture, with gassing, with barrel bombs. Assad will never be accepted by those he has harmed. Never possible to be a legitimate leader in the future.[Syrians were] met with repression, with torture, with gassing, with barrel bombs. Assad will never be accepted by those he has harmed. Never possible to be a legitimate leader in the future.
That cannot happen, Kerry says, until Assad choses to “decline to be part of the long-term future.”That cannot happen, Kerry says, until Assad choses to “decline to be part of the long-term future.”
He adds that “the reality is that Assad has rarely chosen himself to fight Isil,” preferring to attack moderate opposition groups and allow the jihadi group and rebels to weaken each other.He adds that “the reality is that Assad has rarely chosen himself to fight Isil,” preferring to attack moderate opposition groups and allow the jihadi group and rebels to weaken each other.
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“Let me be clear,” Kerry says, the coalition has had success: “liberating Sinjar mountain, liberating Kobani, liberating Tikrit … defending Mosul dam, defending Haditha, protecting Baghdad”.“Let me be clear,” Kerry says, the coalition has had success: “liberating Sinjar mountain, liberating Kobani, liberating Tikrit … defending Mosul dam, defending Haditha, protecting Baghdad”.
He says that after “nearly 3,000 air strikes against Isil targets” the coalition is now in position to “dramatically accelerate our efforts.” Strikes will increase in north-west Syria against Isis targets, he says, as will support for “anti-Isil” forces in north-east Syria. “We will ensure through precision air strikes that Isil leaders do not have any sanctuary anywhere on the ground in Syria.”He says that after “nearly 3,000 air strikes against Isil targets” the coalition is now in position to “dramatically accelerate our efforts.” Strikes will increase in north-west Syria against Isis targets, he says, as will support for “anti-Isil” forces in north-east Syria. “We will ensure through precision air strikes that Isil leaders do not have any sanctuary anywhere on the ground in Syria.”
“As we have said from the start and as the Geneva communique codified this fight cannot be won in the military sphere. It wil requrie a political solution to the crisis in Syria.”“As we have said from the start and as the Geneva communique codified this fight cannot be won in the military sphere. It wil requrie a political solution to the crisis in Syria.”
Updated at 5.29pm BSTUpdated at 5.29pm BST
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“The United States supports any genuine effort to fight Isil and al-Qaida affiliated groups, especially al-Nusra,” Kerry says.“The United States supports any genuine effort to fight Isil and al-Qaida affiliated groups, especially al-Nusra,” Kerry says.
If Russia’s efforts represent a genuine commitment, “we welcome that effort”, he continues.If Russia’s efforts represent a genuine commitment, “we welcome that effort”, he continues.
“But we must not and will not be confused in our fight against Isil with support for Assad. Moreover we have also made claear that we would have grave concerns should Russia strike targets where Isil and al-Qaida affilaited targets [are not] operating. ““But we must not and will not be confused in our fight against Isil with support for Assad. Moreover we have also made claear that we would have grave concerns should Russia strike targets where Isil and al-Qaida affilaited targets [are not] operating. “
“We have informed Russia that we are prepared to hold these deconfliction talks as early as possible: this week.”“We have informed Russia that we are prepared to hold these deconfliction talks as early as possible: this week.”
But US strikes will continue undaunted by Russia’s warnings to clear Syrian airspace. “The United States and coalition will continue our air operatiosn as we have from the very beginning.”But US strikes will continue undaunted by Russia’s warnings to clear Syrian airspace. “The United States and coalition will continue our air operatiosn as we have from the very beginning.”
He says that there have been “a number of strikes” in the last 24 hours, “including just an hour ago. And these strikes will continue.”He says that there have been “a number of strikes” in the last 24 hours, “including just an hour ago. And these strikes will continue.”
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US secretary of state John Kerry is speaking before the UN security council, where Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov has raised terrorism in Syria as the problem of the day.US secretary of state John Kerry is speaking before the UN security council, where Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov has raised terrorism in Syria as the problem of the day.
“I appreciate the fact that Russia’s presidency has chosen to focus on this issue,” Kerry opens.“I appreciate the fact that Russia’s presidency has chosen to focus on this issue,” Kerry opens.
“This is a topic that the council has explored many times going back to 9/11 attacks and even before. We have come together fairly often to condemn terrorism and also to take concerted action to counter violent extremist factions.“This is a topic that the council has explored many times going back to 9/11 attacks and even before. We have come together fairly often to condemn terrorism and also to take concerted action to counter violent extremist factions.
“So this is not a debate about goals, I don’t think. We all oppose the aggressive and destructive ambitions of Isil or al-Qaida. We all oppose the atrocities that they commit.”“So this is not a debate about goals, I don’t think. We all oppose the aggressive and destructive ambitions of Isil or al-Qaida. We all oppose the atrocities that they commit.”
4.56pm BST16:564.56pm BST16:56
Micah Zenko, a senior fellow at the Council of Foreign Relations, tallies the players with air power in Syria, omitting only Bashar al-Assad’s Syrian government.Micah Zenko, a senior fellow at the Council of Foreign Relations, tallies the players with air power in Syria, omitting only Bashar al-Assad’s Syrian government.
Eleven countries have participated in bombing Syria: US Israel Australia Bahrain Canada Jordan Saudi Arabia Turkey UAE France RussiaEleven countries have participated in bombing Syria: US Israel Australia Bahrain Canada Jordan Saudi Arabia Turkey UAE France Russia
Also involved in the conflict but without air power are the jihadi militants of the Islamic State (aka Isis, Isil or Daesh), Jabhat al-Nusra (al-Qaida’s affiliate in Syria), Ahrar al-Sham (an Islamist rebel group founded in 2011 and with reported backing of Turkey and Gulf states), the Free Syrian Army and the Southern Front (two rebel groups that have formed loose coalitions since the civil war begin in 2011).Also involved in the conflict but without air power are the jihadi militants of the Islamic State (aka Isis, Isil or Daesh), Jabhat al-Nusra (al-Qaida’s affiliate in Syria), Ahrar al-Sham (an Islamist rebel group founded in 2011 and with reported backing of Turkey and Gulf states), the Free Syrian Army and the Southern Front (two rebel groups that have formed loose coalitions since the civil war begin in 2011).
There are also the Kurds, fighting against Isis in northern Iraq and southern Syria, with some support from US military advisers and Baghdad, but they have also recently been bombed by Turkey, which fears the ethnic group will gain too much strength within its own borders.There are also the Kurds, fighting against Isis in northern Iraq and southern Syria, with some support from US military advisers and Baghdad, but they have also recently been bombed by Turkey, which fears the ethnic group will gain too much strength within its own borders.
Updated at 5.08pm BSTUpdated at 5.08pm BST
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The state of Syria as yet another military force begins to fight.The state of Syria as yet another military force begins to fight.
Updated at 4.50pm BSTUpdated at 4.50pm BST
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Syria’s official news agency has identified strike locations and claimed that Russia is targeting Isis in cooperation with the SAF, my colleague Kareem Shaheen (@kshaheen) reports from Beirut.Syria’s official news agency has identified strike locations and claimed that Russia is targeting Isis in cooperation with the SAF, my colleague Kareem Shaheen (@kshaheen) reports from Beirut.
They identified the locations of the airstrikes as Rastan, Talbiseh, Zaafaran, the Red Mountains, Aidoun, Deir Foul and the surroundings of Salamieh, all in the central region of Syria (Homs and Hama provinces).They identified the locations of the airstrikes as Rastan, Talbiseh, Zaafaran, the Red Mountains, Aidoun, Deir Foul and the surroundings of Salamieh, all in the central region of Syria (Homs and Hama provinces).
They claimed the attacks scored direct hits and killed and wounded militants.They claimed the attacks scored direct hits and killed and wounded militants.
Ironically, though they said the Russians targeted Isis, later in the announcement they said Talbiseh includes several terrorist factions including Jabhat al Nusra, Ahrar al Sham and others, but did not mention Isis.Ironically, though they said the Russians targeted Isis, later in the announcement they said Talbiseh includes several terrorist factions including Jabhat al Nusra, Ahrar al Sham and others, but did not mention Isis.
Syrian ambassador to Moscow hails start of Russian air operations in his country - the beating heart of Arabism.Syrian ambassador to Moscow hails start of Russian air operations in his country - the beating heart of Arabism.
4.31pm BST16:314.31pm BST16:31
Russia warned Israel that it would begin military action in its neighbor to the north-west, my colleague Peter Beaumont (@petersbeaumont) reports from Jerusalem.Russia warned Israel that it would begin military action in its neighbor to the north-west, my colleague Peter Beaumont (@petersbeaumont) reports from Jerusalem.
An hour before the first strikes Russia contacted Yossi Cohen, the national security adviser to Israeli prime minister Binyamin Netanyahu to warn Russian jets would be bombing targets in Syria. The warning falls in accordance with a ‘deconfliction’ agreement between the Kremlin and Netanyahu, meant to avoid clashes.An hour before the first strikes Russia contacted Yossi Cohen, the national security adviser to Israeli prime minister Binyamin Netanyahu to warn Russian jets would be bombing targets in Syria. The warning falls in accordance with a ‘deconfliction’ agreement between the Kremlin and Netanyahu, meant to avoid clashes.
Despite the agreement with Putin, following a recent meeting between Putin and Netanyahu in Moscow, Israel has been concerned over the potential for clashes while watching warily a Russian military build up it fears will limit its room for action in Syria where it has launched a number of air and artillery strikes as the conflict has come closer.Despite the agreement with Putin, following a recent meeting between Putin and Netanyahu in Moscow, Israel has been concerned over the potential for clashes while watching warily a Russian military build up it fears will limit its room for action in Syria where it has launched a number of air and artillery strikes as the conflict has come closer.
Updated at 4.36pm BSTUpdated at 4.36pm BST
4.23pm BST16:234.23pm BST16:23
Action against the “appalling terrorist death cult outfit” of Isis is “all to the good,” UK prime minister David Cameron has said about Russia’s military strikes in Syria.Action against the “appalling terrorist death cult outfit” of Isis is “all to the good,” UK prime minister David Cameron has said about Russia’s military strikes in Syria.
He has a caveat, though, allowing that he does not yet know what the Kremlin is up to as it bolsters Bashar al-Assad.He has a caveat, though, allowing that he does not yet know what the Kremlin is up to as it bolsters Bashar al-Assad.
“We will need to look very carefully at exactly what has happened. I have a clear view that if this is a part of international action against Isil, that appalling terrorist death cult outfit, then that is all to the good.“We will need to look very carefully at exactly what has happened. I have a clear view that if this is a part of international action against Isil, that appalling terrorist death cult outfit, then that is all to the good.
“If, on the other hand, this is action against the Free Syrian Army in support of Assad the dictator, then obviously that is a retrograde step but let us see exactly what has happened.”“If, on the other hand, this is action against the Free Syrian Army in support of Assad the dictator, then obviously that is a retrograde step but let us see exactly what has happened.”
Updated at 4.26pm BSTUpdated at 4.26pm BST
4.16pm BST16:164.16pm BST16:16
This Russian Orthodox Church has blessed the nascent campaign in Syria as “a holy struggle” against terrorism, church spokesman Vsevolod Chaplin has told state news agency Interfax.This Russian Orthodox Church has blessed the nascent campaign in Syria as “a holy struggle” against terrorism, church spokesman Vsevolod Chaplin has told state news agency Interfax.
“The fight against terrorism is a holy struggle, and today our country has become perhaps the most active force in the world that fights against it,” Chaplin said. “Not because Russia has a selfish interest in this, but because terrorism is immoral.”“The fight against terrorism is a holy struggle, and today our country has become perhaps the most active force in the world that fights against it,” Chaplin said. “Not because Russia has a selfish interest in this, but because terrorism is immoral.”
Konstantin Kosachev, of the foreign affairs committee in Russia’s upper house of parliament, has meanwhile told state television that Russia is only interested in fighting terrorists, my colleague Shaun Walker (@shaunwalker7) reports from Moscow.Konstantin Kosachev, of the foreign affairs committee in Russia’s upper house of parliament, has meanwhile told state television that Russia is only interested in fighting terrorists, my colleague Shaun Walker (@shaunwalker7) reports from Moscow.
Kosachev said that Russia will “on no account” get involved in the fight between Assad and the opposition, and is only fighting terrorists. Though there is a question, of course, on who exactly Russia regards as terrorists in Syria.Kosachev said that Russia will “on no account” get involved in the fight between Assad and the opposition, and is only fighting terrorists. Though there is a question, of course, on who exactly Russia regards as terrorists in Syria.
4.11pm BST16:114.11pm BST16:11
The Guardian’s diplomatic editor Julian Borger (@julianborger) reports from the UN security council meeting, where Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov is acting as chair.The Guardian’s diplomatic editor Julian Borger (@julianborger) reports from the UN security council meeting, where Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov is acting as chair.
Lavrov said Russia will present a draft resolution based on building up joint counter-terrorist operations “based on international law”.Lavrov said Russia will present a draft resolution based on building up joint counter-terrorist operations “based on international law”.
However, that resolution will face opposition from the US, UK and France if it does not include language on a political transition indicating Assad would be not part of Syria’s future.However, that resolution will face opposition from the US, UK and France if it does not include language on a political transition indicating Assad would be not part of Syria’s future.
UK foreign secretary Philip Hammond has already warned the journalists that the targets of the Russian strikes “will be symbolic. The targets won’t have been selected by accident.”UK foreign secretary Philip Hammond has already warned the journalists that the targets of the Russian strikes “will be symbolic. The targets won’t have been selected by accident.”
“If they have selected a target that is clearly a Isil target away from regime strength, they’ll be sending us a signal that they want this intervention to be seen as a counter-Isil intervention.“If they have selected a target that is clearly a Isil target away from regime strength, they’ll be sending us a signal that they want this intervention to be seen as a counter-Isil intervention.
Hammond added: “If they are in an area there are area where there are heavy regime engagements going on, that will send a much more mixed message. If they’re in an area where there’s no Isil it will send a very clear message that the intervention is there to support Assad.”Hammond added: “If they are in an area there are area where there are heavy regime engagements going on, that will send a much more mixed message. If they’re in an area where there’s no Isil it will send a very clear message that the intervention is there to support Assad.”
In the council meeting, China’s minister for foreign affairs, Wang Yi, has called for a third Geneva conference to negotiate a peace deal, Julian’s report continues.In the council meeting, China’s minister for foreign affairs, Wang Yi, has called for a third Geneva conference to negotiate a peace deal, Julian’s report continues.
Wang Yi has called for a conference “without preconditions”, ie without the West insisting that the end-product must be a Syria without Assad.Wang Yi has called for a conference “without preconditions”, ie without the West insisting that the end-product must be a Syria without Assad.
The first Geneva conference in 2012 agreed there should be a transitional government formed by “mutual consent” of the regime and the opposition. Western powers took this to mean it ruled out Assad who would never get the consent of the opposition. Russia and China dispute that was the implication of the agreement.The first Geneva conference in 2012 agreed there should be a transitional government formed by “mutual consent” of the regime and the opposition. Western powers took this to mean it ruled out Assad who would never get the consent of the opposition. Russia and China dispute that was the implication of the agreement.
Updated at 4.17pm BSTUpdated at 4.17pm BST
3.58pm BST15:583.58pm BST15:58
Putin: Russia will not 'plunge headfirst' into warPutin: Russia will not 'plunge headfirst' into war
The Kremlin and its supporters have so far assured Russians that ground soldiers will not take part in the Syrian civil war, with Putin saying this morning that Russia would not “plunge headfirst” into the conflict.The Kremlin and its supporters have so far assured Russians that ground soldiers will not take part in the Syrian civil war, with Putin saying this morning that Russia would not “plunge headfirst” into the conflict.
But who exactly the targets are of Russia’s military campaign remains an open question. Activists and pro-opposition outlets claim that Russian strikes have killed at least 24 people, and other details suggest a strategy well out of sync with the US’s. My colleague Spencer Ackerman writes:But who exactly the targets are of Russia’s military campaign remains an open question. Activists and pro-opposition outlets claim that Russian strikes have killed at least 24 people, and other details suggest a strategy well out of sync with the US’s. My colleague Spencer Ackerman writes:
The apparent geography of the strikes also raises doubts that US and Russian pilots would in fact risk a confrontation. The early reports from the anti-Assad activists in Hama and Homs suggest the strikes occurred further west than the US has ever bombed, deep into territory where the Assad regime still maintains a tenuous hold, and in likely range of its air defences. The US has tended not to strike territory where Isis and Assad actively vie for control.The apparent geography of the strikes also raises doubts that US and Russian pilots would in fact risk a confrontation. The early reports from the anti-Assad activists in Hama and Homs suggest the strikes occurred further west than the US has ever bombed, deep into territory where the Assad regime still maintains a tenuous hold, and in likely range of its air defences. The US has tended not to strike territory where Isis and Assad actively vie for control.
Responding to questions about the strikes, Russian senator Konstantin Kosachev has dissembled slightly, my colleague Shaun Walker notes.Responding to questions about the strikes, Russian senator Konstantin Kosachev has dissembled slightly, my colleague Shaun Walker notes.
Kosachev: "Under no circs will we take part in fight between Assad and opposition, only against terrorists." (But one man's terrorist etc)Kosachev: "Under no circs will we take part in fight between Assad and opposition, only against terrorists." (But one man's terrorist etc)
Updated at 6.26pm BSTUpdated at 6.26pm BST
3.48pm BST15:483.48pm BST15:48
The Free Syrian Army, a rebel group backed by foreign enemies of Assad, has been struck by Russian air strikes in north-west Syria, according to Reuters.The Free Syrian Army, a rebel group backed by foreign enemies of Assad, has been struck by Russian air strikes in north-west Syria, according to Reuters.
The group’s commander said eight fighters were wounded in the countryside of Hama province, where the group has a headquarters.The group’s commander said eight fighters were wounded in the countryside of Hama province, where the group has a headquarters.
“The northern countryside of Hama has no presence of ISIS at all and is under the control of the Free Syrian Army,” Major Jamil al-Saleh, who defected from the Syrian army in 2012, told Reuters via telephone.“The northern countryside of Hama has no presence of ISIS at all and is under the control of the Free Syrian Army,” Major Jamil al-Saleh, who defected from the Syrian army in 2012, told Reuters via telephone.
Saleh said his group had been supplied with advanced anti-tank missiles by foreign powers opposed to Assad.Saleh said his group had been supplied with advanced anti-tank missiles by foreign powers opposed to Assad.
The AFP ‘s Sara Hussein also reports that Hama and nine other locations were hit by Russian air strikes.The AFP ‘s Sara Hussein also reports that Hama and nine other locations were hit by Russian air strikes.
Source tells @AFP areas in #Syria hit by #Russia: Homs: Talbisseh, Rastan; Hama: Latamneh, Kafr Zita; Latakia: Jabal Zweid, Ghmam, Deir HanaSource tells @AFP areas in #Syria hit by #Russia: Homs: Talbisseh, Rastan; Hama: Latamneh, Kafr Zita; Latakia: Jabal Zweid, Ghmam, Deir Hana
3.37pm BST15:373.37pm BST15:37
Hello and welcome to our live coverage of Russia’s military intervention into the Syrian civil war, with air strikes nominally against militants but in areas far from US strikes on the extremist group Isis, raising questions about the new campaign’s intentions.Hello and welcome to our live coverage of Russia’s military intervention into the Syrian civil war, with air strikes nominally against militants but in areas far from US strikes on the extremist group Isis, raising questions about the new campaign’s intentions.
President Vladimir Putin decided to bomb Syria in support of his ally, embattled Syrian president Bashar al-Assad, after several weeks of amassing troops and aircraft at a naval base in Latakia. Speaking Monday at the UN, Putin called for an international coalition against Isis, and met with US president Barack Obama to discuss possible cooperation in the Middle East. In Moscow on Wednesday, Putin ruled out using ground forces.President Vladimir Putin decided to bomb Syria in support of his ally, embattled Syrian president Bashar al-Assad, after several weeks of amassing troops and aircraft at a naval base in Latakia. Speaking Monday at the UN, Putin called for an international coalition against Isis, and met with US president Barack Obama to discuss possible cooperation in the Middle East. In Moscow on Wednesday, Putin ruled out using ground forces.
But the strikes, only hours after Russia’s parliament unanimously approved the use of military force outside, apparently took American officials aback, with one saying the strikes “hardly seem indicative” of “a constructive role” in the four-year conflict, which has killed more than 200,000 people and displaced millions of people.But the strikes, only hours after Russia’s parliament unanimously approved the use of military force outside, apparently took American officials aback, with one saying the strikes “hardly seem indicative” of “a constructive role” in the four-year conflict, which has killed more than 200,000 people and displaced millions of people.
The US has led a coalition bombing campaign against Isis in Syria and Iraq for over a year, to apparently marginal effect as Kurdish and Iraqi ground forces have borne the brunt of ground combat. The US and its Gulf allies in the Middle East have said that Assad must step aside for the conflict between his government forces, fractious opposition forces and jihadi militants to have any chance at resolution, but Putin has maintained that Assad can play a part in the country’s future.The US has led a coalition bombing campaign against Isis in Syria and Iraq for over a year, to apparently marginal effect as Kurdish and Iraqi ground forces have borne the brunt of ground combat. The US and its Gulf allies in the Middle East have said that Assad must step aside for the conflict between his government forces, fractious opposition forces and jihadi militants to have any chance at resolution, but Putin has maintained that Assad can play a part in the country’s future.