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Syria: cessation of hostilities 'within a week' agreed at Munich talks – live Syria: cessation of hostilities 'within a week' agreed at Munich talks – live
(35 minutes later)
10.49am GMT
10:49
Jan Egeland, the head of the Norwegian Refugee Council who will chair a UN meeting in Geneva on humanitarian access to Syria later today, said the agreement could be a breakthrough if pressure is put on the warring sides.
In a statement, the former UN official and Norwegian foreign minister, said:
“We have high hopes that the parties in the International Syria Support Group, including Russia and the United States, will do everything they can to push for humanitarian access to civilians in need inside Syria. We need sustained and full access.
“This could be the breakthrough we have been waiting for to get full access to desperate civilians inside Syria. But it requires that all those with influence on all sides of the conflict are putting pressure the parties.”
10.45am GMT
10:45
David Miliband, head of the US based International Rescue Committee, called for more urgency in securing humanitarian access to the besieged areas.
Britain’s former foreign secretary, who backs the the imposition of safe zones in Syria, said:
“You don’t wait a week for an emergency operation and the people of Syria should not have to wait a week for relief from bombings. The agreement needs detail and urgency to offer hope to the people suffering sieges inside Syria. Syria has been a war without law as well as a war without end. We wait with eager anticipation to see whether this agreement is a turning point or a false dawn.”
10.30am GMT
10:30
Kareem Shaheen
One of the “moderate” rebel groups backed by the West is sceptical about the deal.
The Southern Front, an alliance of opposition fighters operating in southern Syria who have come under intense bombardment by the Russians in recent weeks and months, said:
“We greet this announcement with tentative optimism. Anything which ensures the full implementations of the UN Security Council Resolution 2254 is welcome. However we are sceptical that Russia will hold to these commitments when its current policy it to indiscriminately bomb all parties in Syria into the dust, in particular civilians and moderate opposition, and with complete impunity, while saying they are bombing terrorists. We are waiting for real action, we have now lost faith in words without real action.”
Updated
at 10.31am GMT
10.23am GMT10.23am GMT
10:2310:23
James Sadri, director of the Syria Campaign, a network aimed at protecting civilians, said excluding Russian airstrikes from the agreement is “absurd”.James Sadri, director of the Syria Campaign, a network aimed at protecting civilians, said excluding Russian airstrikes from the agreement is “absurd”.
He said: “This year Russia has become the number one killer of civilians in Syria, killing more than the Assad regime, al-Qaida and Isis combined. If this proposed ceasefire doesn’t stop Russian warplanes from bombing hospitals and schools, then the US and others shouldn’t pretend it’s a ceasefire.”He said: “This year Russia has become the number one killer of civilians in Syria, killing more than the Assad regime, al-Qaida and Isis combined. If this proposed ceasefire doesn’t stop Russian warplanes from bombing hospitals and schools, then the US and others shouldn’t pretend it’s a ceasefire.”
On humanitarian access he said: “Using starvation as a weapon is a war crime. If this agreement means the end of sieges in Syria it will be welcome. But don’t expect celebration on the ground, because the lives of too many Syrian civilians have been ignored and too many people have been starved to death.”On humanitarian access he said: “Using starvation as a weapon is a war crime. If this agreement means the end of sieges in Syria it will be welcome. But don’t expect celebration on the ground, because the lives of too many Syrian civilians have been ignored and too many people have been starved to death.”
10.11am GMT10.11am GMT
10:1110:11
The US State Department has released the full text of Kerry and Lavrov’s press conference on the deal.The US State Department has released the full text of Kerry and Lavrov’s press conference on the deal.
Here’s Kerry on the distinction between a ceasefire and “cessation of hostilities”.Here’s Kerry on the distinction between a ceasefire and “cessation of hostilities”.
So a ceasefire has a great many legal prerogatives and requirements. A cessation of hostilities does not – is not anticipated to, but in many ways, they have a similar effect. A ceasefire in the minds of many of the participants in this particular moment connotes something far more permanent and far more reflective of sort of an end of conflict, if you will. And it is distinctly not that. This is a pause that is dependent on the process going forward, and therefore cessation of hostilities is a much more appropriate, apt term. But the effect of ending hostile actions, the effect of ending offensive actions and permitting only defensive actions that are a matter of self-defense is the same in that regard.So a ceasefire has a great many legal prerogatives and requirements. A cessation of hostilities does not – is not anticipated to, but in many ways, they have a similar effect. A ceasefire in the minds of many of the participants in this particular moment connotes something far more permanent and far more reflective of sort of an end of conflict, if you will. And it is distinctly not that. This is a pause that is dependent on the process going forward, and therefore cessation of hostilities is a much more appropriate, apt term. But the effect of ending hostile actions, the effect of ending offensive actions and permitting only defensive actions that are a matter of self-defense is the same in that regard.
Asked about Russian airstrikes he said:Asked about Russian airstrikes he said:
It is true that the bombing of the last weeks and the aggressive actions of the Assad regime, together with the forces from other places and countries that have helped them has made a difference for Assad. There is no question about that. But that difference doesn’t end the war. That difference does not mean that Assad is secure or safe for the long term. It does not mean that Syria is free from the scourge of terrorist activity by Daesh and others, al-Nusrah and others. And it does not mean that the war is able to end at any time in the foreseeable future. So while, yes, there are some advantages, they are not advantages that turn this on its ear. This is still a very complicated conflict with long-term implications, with increasing levels of violence, with increasing numbers of refugees, with increasing numbers of terrorists. And it is our belief that the more successful Assad is in securing territory against the opposition, the more successful he is in creating more terrorists who threaten the region.It is true that the bombing of the last weeks and the aggressive actions of the Assad regime, together with the forces from other places and countries that have helped them has made a difference for Assad. There is no question about that. But that difference doesn’t end the war. That difference does not mean that Assad is secure or safe for the long term. It does not mean that Syria is free from the scourge of terrorist activity by Daesh and others, al-Nusrah and others. And it does not mean that the war is able to end at any time in the foreseeable future. So while, yes, there are some advantages, they are not advantages that turn this on its ear. This is still a very complicated conflict with long-term implications, with increasing levels of violence, with increasing numbers of refugees, with increasing numbers of terrorists. And it is our belief that the more successful Assad is in securing territory against the opposition, the more successful he is in creating more terrorists who threaten the region.
So we have a fundamental task ahead of us, which hopefully this process can shed some light on as to how we are going to be able to resolve the conflict of one war, which is the war against Assad, and also resolve the other war, which is the war against the terrorists, and particularly Daesh. No small undertaking, but very much front and center in all of our thinking, and in the political process that we are trying to create to find a peaceful resolution.So we have a fundamental task ahead of us, which hopefully this process can shed some light on as to how we are going to be able to resolve the conflict of one war, which is the war against Assad, and also resolve the other war, which is the war against the terrorists, and particularly Daesh. No small undertaking, but very much front and center in all of our thinking, and in the political process that we are trying to create to find a peaceful resolution.
Lavrov denied that Russia had targeted civilians in airstrikes around Aleppo. He accused humanitarian agencies who had made such claims of lying and pointed out that the UN had not made such claims despite reports in the British media.Lavrov denied that Russia had targeted civilians in airstrikes around Aleppo. He accused humanitarian agencies who had made such claims of lying and pointed out that the UN had not made such claims despite reports in the British media.
9.49am GMT9.49am GMT
09:4909:49
The Guardian’s Middle East editor Ian Black and Kareem Shaheen wrap up the key elements of the deal in our latest story. Here’s how it begins:The Guardian’s Middle East editor Ian Black and Kareem Shaheen wrap up the key elements of the deal in our latest story. Here’s how it begins:
A cessation of hostilities is to come into force in Syria within a week and humanitarian aid is to be delivered to besieged areas across the country in the next few days, the US, Russia and other powers said late on Thursday night at talks in Munich. There was no clear commitment to end Russian airstrikes, however.A cessation of hostilities is to come into force in Syria within a week and humanitarian aid is to be delivered to besieged areas across the country in the next few days, the US, Russia and other powers said late on Thursday night at talks in Munich. There was no clear commitment to end Russian airstrikes, however.
Galvanised by mounting international concern over the war, John Kerry, the US secretary of state, said progress had been made towards implementing a nationwide “cessation of hostilities”, although it was not clear how this could happen unless Russia stops bombing civilians and mainstream rebels who are fighting the Syrian president, Bashar al-Assad. Action against Islamic State would continue.Galvanised by mounting international concern over the war, John Kerry, the US secretary of state, said progress had been made towards implementing a nationwide “cessation of hostilities”, although it was not clear how this could happen unless Russia stops bombing civilians and mainstream rebels who are fighting the Syrian president, Bashar al-Assad. Action against Islamic State would continue.
Western diplomats confirmed that there had been no agreement by Moscow to immediately end airstrikes – a key demand of the Syrian opposition, who are likely to be highly sceptical about the results of the talks.Western diplomats confirmed that there had been no agreement by Moscow to immediately end airstrikes – a key demand of the Syrian opposition, who are likely to be highly sceptical about the results of the talks.
Kerry said a UN taskforce would “work to develop the modalities for a long term and durable cessation of violence”.Kerry said a UN taskforce would “work to develop the modalities for a long term and durable cessation of violence”.
Speaking after lengthy talks that included Russia and more than a dozen other countries, Kerry said that all involved agreed that Syrian peace negotiations should resume in Geneva as soon as possible.Speaking after lengthy talks that included Russia and more than a dozen other countries, Kerry said that all involved agreed that Syrian peace negotiations should resume in Geneva as soon as possible.
Related: Partial Syria ceasefire agreed at talks in MunichRelated: Partial Syria ceasefire agreed at talks in Munich
9.42am GMT9.42am GMT
09:4209:42
Kareem ShaheenKareem Shaheen
An activist close to the Ahrar al-Sham rebel group said the agreement amounted to giving Russia time and international cover to continue bombing the opposition fighting the Assad regime, writes Kareem Shaheen.An activist close to the Ahrar al-Sham rebel group said the agreement amounted to giving Russia time and international cover to continue bombing the opposition fighting the Assad regime, writes Kareem Shaheen.
He warned that Ahrar al-Sham could reject the deal it allows Russia to continue bombing the al-Nusra Front, which operates throughout much of rebel-held territory in the country.He warned that Ahrar al-Sham could reject the deal it allows Russia to continue bombing the al-Nusra Front, which operates throughout much of rebel-held territory in the country.
“I don’t expect Ahrar to accept it, because the agreement is completely illogical,” he said. “It is a waste of time because as long as Nusra is excluded from the agreement it means fighting will not stop in any area.”“I don’t expect Ahrar to accept it, because the agreement is completely illogical,” he said. “It is a waste of time because as long as Nusra is excluded from the agreement it means fighting will not stop in any area.”
The Islamist Ahrar al Sham is one of the most powerful rebel groups in Syria and a major component of the Jaysh al-Fateh coalition, which includes Nusra, and which conquered large swathes of territory from the Assad regime in Idlib last year.The Islamist Ahrar al Sham is one of the most powerful rebel groups in Syria and a major component of the Jaysh al-Fateh coalition, which includes Nusra, and which conquered large swathes of territory from the Assad regime in Idlib last year.
It has recently sought to burnish its image in the West, declaring in op-eds in the Telegraph and Washington Post that it was committed to a multi-sectarian and democratic Syria. Both Ahrar and Nusra have a strong presence in Idlib and Aleppo in particular.It has recently sought to burnish its image in the West, declaring in op-eds in the Telegraph and Washington Post that it was committed to a multi-sectarian and democratic Syria. Both Ahrar and Nusra have a strong presence in Idlib and Aleppo in particular.
“Not only in Aleppo but in most liberated areas there is Nusra, and consequently this agreement cannot be implemented,” the activist said.“Not only in Aleppo but in most liberated areas there is Nusra, and consequently this agreement cannot be implemented,” the activist said.
He added that the agreement amounted to giving Russia permission to continue attacking the opposition, particularly in Idlib, which is entirely outside regime control.He added that the agreement amounted to giving Russia permission to continue attacking the opposition, particularly in Idlib, which is entirely outside regime control.
“In truth, there is no longer any confidence in the international community from the Syrian people, and everyone has become convinced that fighting terrorism is simply an excuse to destroy the revolution and the Syrian people,” the activist said.“In truth, there is no longer any confidence in the international community from the Syrian people, and everyone has become convinced that fighting terrorism is simply an excuse to destroy the revolution and the Syrian people,” the activist said.
UpdatedUpdated
at 9.45am GMTat 9.45am GMT
9.34am GMT9.34am GMT
09:3409:34
Turkey calls for end to Russian airstrikesTurkey calls for end to Russian airstrikes
Turkey’s foreign minister has called for an end to Russian airstrikes, which is not part of the agreement. In a tweet Mevlüt Çavuşoğlu said: “What is important now is embracing this opportunity, stopping the airstrikes, ceasing targeting civilians and providing humanitarian access.”Turkey’s foreign minister has called for an end to Russian airstrikes, which is not part of the agreement. In a tweet Mevlüt Çavuşoğlu said: “What is important now is embracing this opportunity, stopping the airstrikes, ceasing targeting civilians and providing humanitarian access.”
This statement underlined the issues impairing the Geneva process& presented an opp. to unblock stalemate before the political process.This statement underlined the issues impairing the Geneva process& presented an opp. to unblock stalemate before the political process.
What is important now is embracing this opportunity, stopping the airstrikes, ceasing targeting civilians and providing humanitarian access.What is important now is embracing this opportunity, stopping the airstrikes, ceasing targeting civilians and providing humanitarian access.
UpdatedUpdated
at 9.45am GMTat 9.45am GMT
9.27am GMT9.27am GMT
09:2709:27
Shadow Foreign Secretary Hilary Benn has given his cautious backing to the agreement. In a statement he said:Shadow Foreign Secretary Hilary Benn has given his cautious backing to the agreement. In a statement he said:
“Far too many lives have already been lost in Syria and a ceasefire is urgently needed to put an end to the bloodshed and bring in humanitarian aid.“Far too many lives have already been lost in Syria and a ceasefire is urgently needed to put an end to the bloodshed and bring in humanitarian aid.
“This announcement is a welcome step forward but the test will be whether it actually happens on the ground and includes an end to Russia’s bombing of the Syrian moderate opposition.”“This announcement is a welcome step forward but the test will be whether it actually happens on the ground and includes an end to Russia’s bombing of the Syrian moderate opposition.”
Sweden’s former prime minster Carl Bildt tweeted that the exclusion of Russian airstrikes from the deal was “strange”.Sweden’s former prime minster Carl Bildt tweeted that the exclusion of Russian airstrikes from the deal was “strange”.
Announced ceasefire in Syria said not to include Russian bombing. Sounds strange. Will others observe? https://t.co/dqWqnjuNENAnnounced ceasefire in Syria said not to include Russian bombing. Sounds strange. Will others observe? https://t.co/dqWqnjuNEN
9.16am GMT9.16am GMT
09:1609:16
Why wait a week to cease hostilities? asks the US-based aid agency Mercy Corps.Why wait a week to cease hostilities? asks the US-based aid agency Mercy Corps.
In a statement on the deal, its chief executive Neal Keny-Guyer, said:In a statement on the deal, its chief executive Neal Keny-Guyer, said:
We are encouraged by the apparent breakthrough in negotiations on Syria and hopeful that it will pave the way to a permanent cease-fire and, eventually, a lasting peace. A cessation of hostilities by all parties to the conflict will allow for humanitarian access to the millions of innocent Syrian civilians trying to survive a seemingly endless war.We are encouraged by the apparent breakthrough in negotiations on Syria and hopeful that it will pave the way to a permanent cease-fire and, eventually, a lasting peace. A cessation of hostilities by all parties to the conflict will allow for humanitarian access to the millions of innocent Syrian civilians trying to survive a seemingly endless war.
We see tens of thousands of men, women and children desperately looking for a safe place, without finding one.We see tens of thousands of men, women and children desperately looking for a safe place, without finding one.
We must ask: Why wait one more week before the fighting stops?We must ask: Why wait one more week before the fighting stops?
What we have seen in Syria over these past years of war is shameful. It’s time to end the fighting. It’s time to end the bombing. It’s time to end the war.What we have seen in Syria over these past years of war is shameful. It’s time to end the fighting. It’s time to end the bombing. It’s time to end the war.
8.51am GMT8.51am GMT
08:5108:51
The UK’s former ambassador to Syria warned that the agreement appears to be an attempt by Syria’s ally Russia to divide the rebels fighting the Assad regime.The UK’s former ambassador to Syria warned that the agreement appears to be an attempt by Syria’s ally Russia to divide the rebels fighting the Assad regime.
Peter Ford, who served in Damascus from 2003 to 2006, gave a gloomy assessment of the deal in an interview on BBC Radio 4’s Today programme.Peter Ford, who served in Damascus from 2003 to 2006, gave a gloomy assessment of the deal in an interview on BBC Radio 4’s Today programme.
He started by likening it to Neville Chamberlain’s agreement with Hitler before the Second World War. Ford said: “Well Munich. Is it ‘peace in our time’? Definitely not. Is it divide and rule? Quite possibly.”He started by likening it to Neville Chamberlain’s agreement with Hitler before the Second World War. Ford said: “Well Munich. Is it ‘peace in our time’? Definitely not. Is it divide and rule? Quite possibly.”
Ford added:Ford added:
The key here is al-Nusra. This is an very important armed group, affiliated to al-Qaida and it is legitimate to continue bombing it. Al-Nusra, however, works closely with a number of the so-called moderate groups. This agreement is going to set the cat among the pigeons among all the rebels, especially those who work hand in glove with al-Nusra. They are going to get hit if they continue to work alongside al-Nusra in the designated areas. So Russia is being quite clever. Their game is to try to split the so-called moderates away from al-Nusra, so that the Syrian army, which suffers from depleted manpower, can tackle al-Nusra.The key here is al-Nusra. This is an very important armed group, affiliated to al-Qaida and it is legitimate to continue bombing it. Al-Nusra, however, works closely with a number of the so-called moderate groups. This agreement is going to set the cat among the pigeons among all the rebels, especially those who work hand in glove with al-Nusra. They are going to get hit if they continue to work alongside al-Nusra in the designated areas. So Russia is being quite clever. Their game is to try to split the so-called moderates away from al-Nusra, so that the Syrian army, which suffers from depleted manpower, can tackle al-Nusra.
We wait to see whether the opposition is ready to step up to the plate and deliver ceasefires in their areas. Clearly Russia can force Assad to comply. That is not a problem, the onus is now on the opposition to show that they can deliver ceasefires.We wait to see whether the opposition is ready to step up to the plate and deliver ceasefires in their areas. Clearly Russia can force Assad to comply. That is not a problem, the onus is now on the opposition to show that they can deliver ceasefires.
Asked if they could he said: “No, I don’t think they will. It’s back to the drawing board.”Asked if they could he said: “No, I don’t think they will. It’s back to the drawing board.”
Ford added: “What we are seeing is not a political transition towards some endgame in which Assad steps down, what we are seeing actually is a transition in which the American position is changing. You can sense this in the words not used by [US Secretary of State] Kerry. He has more or less stopped demanding that Assad step down.”Ford added: “What we are seeing is not a political transition towards some endgame in which Assad steps down, what we are seeing actually is a transition in which the American position is changing. You can sense this in the words not used by [US Secretary of State] Kerry. He has more or less stopped demanding that Assad step down.”
Ford also criticised the British government’s response to the agreement, claiming it was focussed on a domestic agenda. “The British are one step behind. But of course the British have a Trident-related agenda of their own to demonise Russia. I think [Foreign Secretary] Philip Hammond made a typically sour comment [he] could only say negative things about Russia. But this has to be be seen against the background of the British government’s need to ramp up fear and loathing of Russia, because they have renewal of Trident coming up.”Ford also criticised the British government’s response to the agreement, claiming it was focussed on a domestic agenda. “The British are one step behind. But of course the British have a Trident-related agenda of their own to demonise Russia. I think [Foreign Secretary] Philip Hammond made a typically sour comment [he] could only say negative things about Russia. But this has to be be seen against the background of the British government’s need to ramp up fear and loathing of Russia, because they have renewal of Trident coming up.”
UpdatedUpdated
at 9.10am GMTat 9.10am GMT
8.06am GMT8.06am GMT
08:0608:06
Kareem ShaheenKareem Shaheen
Zeid Ra’ad al Hussein, the UN’s High Commissioner for Human Rights, underlined the urgency of the need for humanitarian access to besieged areas - part of the agreement, writes Kareem Shaheen.Zeid Ra’ad al Hussein, the UN’s High Commissioner for Human Rights, underlined the urgency of the need for humanitarian access to besieged areas - part of the agreement, writes Kareem Shaheen.
He described the situation in Aleppo as “grotesque” amid the ongoing fighting that has sent tens of thousands of refugees to the Turkish border.He described the situation in Aleppo as “grotesque” amid the ongoing fighting that has sent tens of thousands of refugees to the Turkish border.
He said the government offensive and Russian airstrikes have displaced 51,000 civilians and put another 300,000 at risk of being placed under siege.He said the government offensive and Russian airstrikes have displaced 51,000 civilians and put another 300,000 at risk of being placed under siege.
“I condemn these horrendous acts unequivocally,” he said in a statement last night.“I condemn these horrendous acts unequivocally,” he said in a statement last night.
“The warring parties in Syria are constantly sinking to new depths, without apparently caring in the slightest about the death and destruction they are wreaking across the country. Women and children, the elderly, the wounded and sick, the people with disabilities are being used as bargaining chips and cannon fodder day after day, week after week, month after month. It is a grotesque situation.”“The warring parties in Syria are constantly sinking to new depths, without apparently caring in the slightest about the death and destruction they are wreaking across the country. Women and children, the elderly, the wounded and sick, the people with disabilities are being used as bargaining chips and cannon fodder day after day, week after week, month after month. It is a grotesque situation.”
Talks on the crucial details about humanitarian access are due to start in Geneva later today.Talks on the crucial details about humanitarian access are due to start in Geneva later today.
UpdatedUpdated
at 8.11am GMTat 8.11am GMT
7.48am GMT7.48am GMT
07:4807:48
Kareem ShaheenKareem Shaheen
Last night a top Saudi military official repeated the kingdom’s readiness to send special forces troops to fight Isis inside Syria, despite opposition by Russia, Iran and the Assad regime.Last night a top Saudi military official repeated the kingdom’s readiness to send special forces troops to fight Isis inside Syria, despite opposition by Russia, Iran and the Assad regime.
Staff Brig Gen Ahmed Asiri, Prince Mohammad bin Salman’s military adviser, said Saudi Arabia would “participate with ground forces once there is an agreement by the leadership of the [US-led] coalition.”Staff Brig Gen Ahmed Asiri, Prince Mohammad bin Salman’s military adviser, said Saudi Arabia would “participate with ground forces once there is an agreement by the leadership of the [US-led] coalition.”
“These will most likely be small numbers of special forces to push forward the work on the ground and achieve positive results for the coalition,” he said after a meeting of coalition representatives in Brussels.“These will most likely be small numbers of special forces to push forward the work on the ground and achieve positive results for the coalition,” he said after a meeting of coalition representatives in Brussels.
The pledge would likely be unaffected by an agreement for a nationwide ceasefire that does not include military operations against Isis.The pledge would likely be unaffected by an agreement for a nationwide ceasefire that does not include military operations against Isis.
Allies of the Syrian regime have condemned the prospect of Saudi ground troops in Syria, with the Syrian foreign minister saying any invading forces would return home in coffins.Allies of the Syrian regime have condemned the prospect of Saudi ground troops in Syria, with the Syrian foreign minister saying any invading forces would return home in coffins.
Jan Eliasson, the deputy UN Secretary-General, said at a press briefing earlier this week in Dubai that the prospect of ground forces and intensified airstrikes (which were conducted by Russia in the run-up to the Munich meeting) were dangerous escalations in the conflict.Jan Eliasson, the deputy UN Secretary-General, said at a press briefing earlier this week in Dubai that the prospect of ground forces and intensified airstrikes (which were conducted by Russia in the run-up to the Munich meeting) were dangerous escalations in the conflict.
7.45am GMT7.45am GMT
07:4507:45
Kareem ShaheenKareem Shaheen
A major question regarding the viability of a ceasefire agreement is the status of Jabhat al-Nusra, which is excluded from the agreement, writes Kareem Shaheen.A major question regarding the viability of a ceasefire agreement is the status of Jabhat al-Nusra, which is excluded from the agreement, writes Kareem Shaheen.
The group is the al-Qaida affiliate in Syria and its leaders have repeatedly pledged allegiance to Ayman al-Zawahiri, but the Nusra has also allied itself locally with various conservative rebel groups.The group is the al-Qaida affiliate in Syria and its leaders have repeatedly pledged allegiance to Ayman al-Zawahiri, but the Nusra has also allied itself locally with various conservative rebel groups.
It is part of the Jaysh al-Fateh alliance that conquered large swathes of Idlib province in the north in the spring of last year, and remains one of the most powerful groups in Syria fighting the Assad regime.It is part of the Jaysh al-Fateh alliance that conquered large swathes of Idlib province in the north in the spring of last year, and remains one of the most powerful groups in Syria fighting the Assad regime.
Nusra operates across Syria, including in Aleppo and Latakia provinces, Idlib, Hama and the south not far from the Jordanian and Israeli borders. While the group has claimed that it is not planning attacks in the West from Syria, a wing of the group, known as Khorasan, is believed by some observers to be doing just that, though members of its top echelon have been killed in American airstrikes.Nusra operates across Syria, including in Aleppo and Latakia provinces, Idlib, Hama and the south not far from the Jordanian and Israeli borders. While the group has claimed that it is not planning attacks in the West from Syria, a wing of the group, known as Khorasan, is believed by some observers to be doing just that, though members of its top echelon have been killed in American airstrikes.
It is an open question whether attacks against the group will inevitably hit other rebel groups fighting alongside Nusra against the regime and what impact such attacks will have on any nationwide ceasefire agreement.It is an open question whether attacks against the group will inevitably hit other rebel groups fighting alongside Nusra against the regime and what impact such attacks will have on any nationwide ceasefire agreement.
7.37am GMT7.37am GMT
07:3707:37
Matthew WeaverMatthew Weaver
Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev says the use of ground troops in the Syrian conflict could result in world war.Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev says the use of ground troops in the Syrian conflict could result in world war.
In an interview given before the cessation of hostilities agreement, Medvedev told the German newspaper Handelsblatt that “a ground operation draws everyone taking part in it into a war.”In an interview given before the cessation of hostilities agreement, Medvedev told the German newspaper Handelsblatt that “a ground operation draws everyone taking part in it into a war.”
When asked about a recent proposal from Saudi Arabia to send in ground troops to Syria, the prime minister answered that “the Americans and our Arab partners must consider whether or not they want a permanent war.”When asked about a recent proposal from Saudi Arabia to send in ground troops to Syria, the prime minister answered that “the Americans and our Arab partners must consider whether or not they want a permanent war.”
Medvedev criticized Western powers’ refusal to collaborate with Russia in Syria. The prime minister said ties at the level of defense departments are only sporadic.Medvedev criticized Western powers’ refusal to collaborate with Russia in Syria. The prime minister said ties at the level of defense departments are only sporadic.
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7.18am GMT7.18am GMT
07:1807:18
What we know so farWhat we know so far
Claire PhippsClaire Phipps
Our airspace forces will continue working against these organisations.Our airspace forces will continue working against these organisations.
What we need to see in the next few days are actions on the ground, in the field.What we need to see in the next few days are actions on the ground, in the field.
Without a political transition, it is not possible to achieve peace.Without a political transition, it is not possible to achieve peace.
Russia, in particular, claims to be attacking terrorist groups and yet consistently bombs non-extremist groups including civilians.Russia, in particular, claims to be attacking terrorist groups and yet consistently bombs non-extremist groups including civilians.
If this agreement is to work, this bombing will have to stop: no cessation of hostilities will last if moderate opposition groups continue to be targeted.If this agreement is to work, this bombing will have to stop: no cessation of hostilities will last if moderate opposition groups continue to be targeted.
Read the full text of the communiqué here.Read the full text of the communiqué here.
And read the latest round-up from the Guardian’s Middle East editor, Ian Black, here.And read the latest round-up from the Guardian’s Middle East editor, Ian Black, here.
I’m now handing over this live blog to my colleague Matthew Weaver in London for further updates as the working group meets in Geneva to discuss urgent humanitarian access to Syria.I’m now handing over this live blog to my colleague Matthew Weaver in London for further updates as the working group meets in Geneva to discuss urgent humanitarian access to Syria.
Thanks for reading.Thanks for reading.
6.54am GMT6.54am GMT
06:5406:54
Associated Press has this analysis of the work that lies ahead for the twin task forces – one focusing on humanitarian access, the other on the detail of the cessation of hostilities – over the coming week:Associated Press has this analysis of the work that lies ahead for the twin task forces – one focusing on humanitarian access, the other on the detail of the cessation of hostilities – over the coming week:
While humanitarian access to be discussed by a working group on Friday in Geneva is key to relieving the suffering of millions of Syrians in the short term, a durable and lasting ceasefire will be required if stalled negotiations between Assad’s government and the opposition are to resume on or before a UN-set target date of 25 February.While humanitarian access to be discussed by a working group on Friday in Geneva is key to relieving the suffering of millions of Syrians in the short term, a durable and lasting ceasefire will be required if stalled negotiations between Assad’s government and the opposition are to resume on or before a UN-set target date of 25 February.
The talks broke down last month before they really started, due largely to gains by Assad’s military with the heavy backing of Russian airstrikes.The talks broke down last month before they really started, due largely to gains by Assad’s military with the heavy backing of Russian airstrikes.
Kerry and Lavrov said the US and Russia would co-chair both the working group on humanitarian aid and a task force that will try to deal with the “modalities” of the temporary truce.Kerry and Lavrov said the US and Russia would co-chair both the working group on humanitarian aid and a task force that will try to deal with the “modalities” of the temporary truce.
That task force will include members of the military along with representatives from countries that are supporting various armed groups in Syria. The Syrian government and the opposition would both have to agree to the details.That task force will include members of the military along with representatives from countries that are supporting various armed groups in Syria. The Syrian government and the opposition would both have to agree to the details.
Despite apparent concessions on potential timing of the truce and the agreement to set up the task force, the US, Russia and others remain far apart on which groups should be eligible for it. At the moment, only two groups – Islamic State and the al-Qaida-affiliated al-Nusra Front – are ineligible because they are identified as terrorist organisations by the United Nations.Despite apparent concessions on potential timing of the truce and the agreement to set up the task force, the US, Russia and others remain far apart on which groups should be eligible for it. At the moment, only two groups – Islamic State and the al-Qaida-affiliated al-Nusra Front – are ineligible because they are identified as terrorist organisations by the United Nations.
Russia, Syria and Iran argue that other groups – notably some supported by Turkey, Saudi Arabia and other Arab states – should not be eligible for the ceasefire, and there was no sign on Friday that those differences had been resolved.Russia, Syria and Iran argue that other groups – notably some supported by Turkey, Saudi Arabia and other Arab states – should not be eligible for the ceasefire, and there was no sign on Friday that those differences had been resolved.
6.39am GMT6.39am GMT
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Another key element of the text agreed in Munich – albeit the third point behind humanitarian access and the cessation of hostilities – deals with “political transition”.Another key element of the text agreed in Munich – albeit the third point behind humanitarian access and the cessation of hostilities – deals with “political transition”.
Here’s what that section says in full (the bold highlighting is mine):Here’s what that section says in full (the bold highlighting is mine):
Advancing a political transitionAdvancing a political transition
The members of the ISSG [International Syria Support Group, the 17 members meeting in Munich] reaffirmed the imperative of all sides engaging in negotiations under the auspices of the United Nations as soon as possible, in strict compliance with United Nations Security Council 2254.The members of the ISSG [International Syria Support Group, the 17 members meeting in Munich] reaffirmed the imperative of all sides engaging in negotiations under the auspices of the United Nations as soon as possible, in strict compliance with United Nations Security Council 2254.
They reaffirmed that it is for the Syrian people to decide the future of Syria.They reaffirmed that it is for the Syrian people to decide the future of Syria.
The members of the ISSG pledge to do all they can to facilitate rapid progress in these negotiations, including the reaching of agreement within six months on a political transition plan that establishes credible, inclusive and non-sectarian governance and sets a schedule and process for drafting a new constitution, free and fair elections, pursuant to the new constitution, to be held within 18 months and administered under supervision of the United Nations, to the satisfaction of the governance and to the highest international standards of transparency and accountability, with all Syrians, including members of the diaspora, eligible to participate.The members of the ISSG pledge to do all they can to facilitate rapid progress in these negotiations, including the reaching of agreement within six months on a political transition plan that establishes credible, inclusive and non-sectarian governance and sets a schedule and process for drafting a new constitution, free and fair elections, pursuant to the new constitution, to be held within 18 months and administered under supervision of the United Nations, to the satisfaction of the governance and to the highest international standards of transparency and accountability, with all Syrians, including members of the diaspora, eligible to participate.
Full implementation of these objectives will require the ISSG co-chairs and members, the UN and others, to work closely on political, humanitarian, and military dimensions.Full implementation of these objectives will require the ISSG co-chairs and members, the UN and others, to work closely on political, humanitarian, and military dimensions.
6.25am GMT6.25am GMT
06:2506:25
Talks will begin in Geneva within hours aimed at securing access to Syria’s most besieged regions – and people – to deliver humanitarian relief.Talks will begin in Geneva within hours aimed at securing access to Syria’s most besieged regions – and people – to deliver humanitarian relief.
How successful, and speedy, these negotiations will be remains to be seen.How successful, and speedy, these negotiations will be remains to be seen.
Earlier this week, the Guardian’s Emma Graham-Harrison and Kareem Shaheen reported on the desperate situation facing residents of Madaya:Earlier this week, the Guardian’s Emma Graham-Harrison and Kareem Shaheen reported on the desperate situation facing residents of Madaya:
The besieged Syrian town of Madaya is facing starvation again because meagre supplies delivered last month are already running out, residents have said, as the United Nations was accused of severely underestimating the number of people suffering under blockades around the country.The besieged Syrian town of Madaya is facing starvation again because meagre supplies delivered last month are already running out, residents have said, as the United Nations was accused of severely underestimating the number of people suffering under blockades around the country.
More than a million Syrian civilians are living in besieged towns and villages, according to the aid organisation Siege Watch, more than double the number listed in UN data.More than a million Syrian civilians are living in besieged towns and villages, according to the aid organisation Siege Watch, more than double the number listed in UN data.
That number could rise sharply if the government troops advancing on Aleppo cut off the city’s last supply line, with the UN warning on Tuesday that up to 300,000 civilians could be stranded in the city that was once Syria’s biggest urban centre.That number could rise sharply if the government troops advancing on Aleppo cut off the city’s last supply line, with the UN warning on Tuesday that up to 300,000 civilians could be stranded in the city that was once Syria’s biggest urban centre.
Related: Madaya again facing starvation as report warns of extent of siegesRelated: Madaya again facing starvation as report warns of extent of sieges
UpdatedUpdated
at 6.41am GMTat 6.41am GMT
5.05am GMT5.05am GMT
05:0505:05
What we know so farWhat we know so far
Our airspace forces will continue working against these organisations.Our airspace forces will continue working against these organisations.
What we need to see in the next few days are actions on the ground, in the field.What we need to see in the next few days are actions on the ground, in the field.
Without a political transition, it is not possible to achieve peace.Without a political transition, it is not possible to achieve peace.
Russia, in particular, claims to be attacking terrorist groups and yet consistently bombs non-extremist groups including civilians.Russia, in particular, claims to be attacking terrorist groups and yet consistently bombs non-extremist groups including civilians.
If this agreement is to work, this bombing will have to stop: no cessation of hostilities will last if moderate opposition groups continue to be targeted.If this agreement is to work, this bombing will have to stop: no cessation of hostilities will last if moderate opposition groups continue to be targeted.
UpdatedUpdated
at 5.23am GMTat 5.23am GMT
4.41am GMT4.41am GMT
04:4104:41
The Washington Post has this pithy summary of what the cessation might look like on the ground in Syrian conflict zones:The Washington Post has this pithy summary of what the cessation might look like on the ground in Syrian conflict zones:
Although isolated, small-scale fighting is likely to continue, the deal would ideally stop the use of heavy weapons, including tanks and antitank missiles.Although isolated, small-scale fighting is likely to continue, the deal would ideally stop the use of heavy weapons, including tanks and antitank missiles.
The United States and its partners would continue their current level of equipping and training the opposition so as not to leave the rebels at a disadvantage if the cessation of hostilities collapses.The United States and its partners would continue their current level of equipping and training the opposition so as not to leave the rebels at a disadvantage if the cessation of hostilities collapses.
Russia presumably would continue its support for the Syrian government.Russia presumably would continue its support for the Syrian government.
4.10am GMT4.10am GMT
04:1004:10
Any cessation of hostilities will have to take into account not only the questions of Russian airstrikes, but the complex web of alliances and enmities within Syria.Any cessation of hostilities will have to take into account not only the questions of Russian airstrikes, but the complex web of alliances and enmities within Syria.
This Guardian interactive from December illustrates the divisions – political and territorial – that will need resolution:This Guardian interactive from December illustrates the divisions – political and territorial – that will need resolution:
Related: Who backs whom in the Syrian conflictRelated: Who backs whom in the Syrian conflict
3.40am GMT3.40am GMT
03:4003:40
In the US, the two Democratic candidates for president are taking part in another televised debate, and the questioning has turned to Syria and – in particular – the role of Russia.In the US, the two Democratic candidates for president are taking part in another televised debate, and the questioning has turned to Syria and – in particular – the role of Russia.
Bernie SandersBernie Sanders
Sanders congratulated Kerry and Obama on the deal.Sanders congratulated Kerry and Obama on the deal.
It is a complicated relationship [with Russia].It is a complicated relationship [with Russia].
[The Syrian situation] is unspeakable, it is a real horror … you do have a humanitarian tragedy there.[The Syrian situation] is unspeakable, it is a real horror … you do have a humanitarian tragedy there.
Right now we have got to do our best to develop a relationship with Russia.Right now we have got to do our best to develop a relationship with Russia.
But Sanders has strong criticism of Russia for its aggression in Crimea and elsewhere.But Sanders has strong criticism of Russia for its aggression in Crimea and elsewhere.
Hillary ClintonHillary Clinton
I really do appreciate the efforts Secretary Kerry has made.I really do appreciate the efforts Secretary Kerry has made.
She says the need to implement the agreement on humanitarian access is urgent:She says the need to implement the agreement on humanitarian access is urgent:
[There are] enclaves literally filled with starving people.[There are] enclaves literally filled with starving people.
The ceasefire has to be implemented more quickly …The ceasefire has to be implemented more quickly …
The Russians wanted to buy time … to further decimate what’s left of the opposition, which would be a grave disservice to any kind of eventual ceasefire.The Russians wanted to buy time … to further decimate what’s left of the opposition, which would be a grave disservice to any kind of eventual ceasefire.
She says Kerry is working to move a ceasefire forward “as quickly as possible”, but warned:She says Kerry is working to move a ceasefire forward “as quickly as possible”, but warned:
I fear the Russians will continue their bombing … The Russians have not gone after Isis or any of the other terrorist groups .I fear the Russians will continue their bombing … The Russians have not gone after Isis or any of the other terrorist groups .
There is further live coverage of the debate here:There is further live coverage of the debate here:
Related: Sanders and Clinton trade blows over ‘corrupt campaign finances’ at Democratic debate – liveRelated: Sanders and Clinton trade blows over ‘corrupt campaign finances’ at Democratic debate – live
UpdatedUpdated
at 3.54am GMTat 3.54am GMT
3.10am GMT3.10am GMT
03:1003:10
Michael SafiMichael Safi
Bob Bowker, a former Australian ambassador to Syria, Jordan and Egypt, said agreement appeared to spare groups such as Ahrar al-Sham, an opposition group he said was “essentially cloned from al-Qaida”:Bob Bowker, a former Australian ambassador to Syria, Jordan and Egypt, said agreement appeared to spare groups such as Ahrar al-Sham, an opposition group he said was “essentially cloned from al-Qaida”:
The reality is that no one in their right minds would wish to see al-Qaida-linked or originated elements succeed in Syria. To the extent that the Russians degrade the capabilities of those elements, that’s in everyone’s long-term benefit.The reality is that no one in their right minds would wish to see al-Qaida-linked or originated elements succeed in Syria. To the extent that the Russians degrade the capabilities of those elements, that’s in everyone’s long-term benefit.
Bowker said any deal “that enables the establishment of local ceasefires and freer access for humanitarian relief purposes has to be welcomed”:Bowker said any deal “that enables the establishment of local ceasefires and freer access for humanitarian relief purposes has to be welcomed”:
It’s also important that the Russians and Americans are able to identify the need for a negotiating process to continue, even though the military actions that are being undertaken by the Russians will not be wound back as far as the Americans would prefer.It’s also important that the Russians and Americans are able to identify the need for a negotiating process to continue, even though the military actions that are being undertaken by the Russians will not be wound back as far as the Americans would prefer.
It’s certainly a positive to have a signal to the contending parties that the Russians and Americans are seeking to limit the intensity of the conflict.It’s certainly a positive to have a signal to the contending parties that the Russians and Americans are seeking to limit the intensity of the conflict.
But he said much larger questions were still to be answered:But he said much larger questions were still to be answered:
The obvious question is what exactly will be the status of president Assad, in the aftermath of a cessation of hostilities; what political process would follow from that, and who would be in a position to monitor and guarantee the outcomes of that political process?The obvious question is what exactly will be the status of president Assad, in the aftermath of a cessation of hostilities; what political process would follow from that, and who would be in a position to monitor and guarantee the outcomes of that political process?
I don’t think that those issues have been resolved by the Russians and the Americans at this juncture.I don’t think that those issues have been resolved by the Russians and the Americans at this juncture.
2.47am GMT2.47am GMT
02:4702:47
What happens next?What happens next?
The deal announced in Munich aims to see a cessation of hostilities “within a week”.The deal announced in Munich aims to see a cessation of hostilities “within a week”.
How will that pan out? Here is a (very tentative) timetable, beginning with a working group to discuss humanitarian access meeting in Geneva on Friday.How will that pan out? Here is a (very tentative) timetable, beginning with a working group to discuss humanitarian access meeting in Geneva on Friday.
Halting violenceHalting violence
US secretary of state John Kerry said a UN task force, co-chaired by Russia and the US, would work over the coming week “to develop the modalities for a long-term, comprehensive and durable cessation of violence”.US secretary of state John Kerry said a UN task force, co-chaired by Russia and the US, would work over the coming week “to develop the modalities for a long-term, comprehensive and durable cessation of violence”.
Humanitarian responseHumanitarian response
Another task force will oversee the delivery of aid, including pressure on Syria to open routes, since only around a dozen of 116 previous UN access requests have been granted.Another task force will oversee the delivery of aid, including pressure on Syria to open routes, since only around a dozen of 116 previous UN access requests have been granted.
“Sustained delivery will begin this week, first to the areas where it is most urgently needed … and then to all the people in need throughout the country, particularly in the besieged and hard to reach areas,” said Kerry.“Sustained delivery will begin this week, first to the areas where it is most urgently needed … and then to all the people in need throughout the country, particularly in the besieged and hard to reach areas,” said Kerry.
“This working group will meet tomorrow in Geneva,” said Kerry. “It will report weekly on progress, or lack thereof, to ensure consistent and timely and approved access moving forward.”“This working group will meet tomorrow in Geneva,” said Kerry. “It will report weekly on progress, or lack thereof, to ensure consistent and timely and approved access moving forward.”
Future talksFuture talks
Kerry said talks between rebels and the regime would resume as soon as possible.Kerry said talks between rebels and the regime would resume as soon as possible.