June 2012 - Syria Special Weapons News

Powers Agree Plan For Syrian Transitional Government RFE/RL 30 Jun 2012 -- World powers and neighbors of Syria have agreed on a road map for political transition to end 16 months of bloodshed but left open the question of whether President Bashar al-Assad can take part.
International Conference on Syria Opens in Geneva RIA Novosti 30 Jun 2012 -- An international conference on Syria intended to discuss all viable mechanisms of ensuring a ceasefire in the Middle Eastern country started its work in Geneva on Saturday.
UN-backed Action Group agrees on measures for peaceful transition in Syria UN News Centre 30 Jun 2012 -- The United Nations-backed Action Group on Syria today forged an agreement outlining the steps for a peaceful transition in the Middle Eastern country, while strongly condemning the continued and escalating violence that has taken place there over the past 16 months.
World Powers Agree on Syria Transition VOA 30 Jun 2012 -- The United States, Russia and other world leaders have agreed on a plan for a transitional government of national unity in Syria that they hope will pave the way for an end to the violence that has killed more than 15,000 people during the 16-month uprising. The plan, drafted by International Envoy Kofi Annan, lays out a number of steps that, if followed, could lead to the Syrian people democratically determining their own future. But it also leaves open the question of whether Syrian President Bashar al-Assad can be part of the transitional government.
US, Russia Remain Divided Over Syria VOA 29 Jun 2012 -- Top U.S. and Russian diplomats have failed to reach an agreement on how to deal with the rising violence across Syria.
Russia's Syria Policy Planners Look for 'Plan B' VOA 29 Jun 2012 -- On the eve of Saturday's international meeting in Geneva on the future of Syria, U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton discussed Syria with her Russian counterpart in a meeting Friday in St. Petersburg.
Assad Rules Out 'Foreign' Solution In Syria RFE/RL 29 Jun 2012 -- Syrian President Bashar Assad has ruled out any foreign solution to his country's crisis.
Clinton to Pressure Russia on Syrian Crisis VOA 29 Jun 2012 -- U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton holds talks with her Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov Friday, ahead of an international conference on the Syrian crisis.
UN and partners appeal for $193 million to assist Syrian refugees UN News Centre 28 Jun 2012 -- United Nations humanitarian agencies and their partners today appealed for $193 million to help the growing number of Syrian refugees in Jordan, Lebanon, Turkey and Iraq.
US: Damascus Violence Is Sign Assad Losing Control VOA 28 Jun 2012 -- The United States says escalating violence in and around Damascus is a result of President Bashar al-Assad assaulting the Syrian people and a sign that he is losing control of the capital.
Turkey Deploys Anti-Aircraft Guns On Syrian Border RIA Novosti 28 Jun 2012 -- Turkey deployed anti-aircraft artillery near its border with Syria on Thursday, amid heightened tensions over the downing of a Turkish warplane by Syrian forces last week, state media reported.
Turkey Boosts Forces at Syrian Border VOA 28 Jun 2012 -- Turkey said Thursday it is stationing anti-aircraft batteries on its border with Syria following the downing of one of its warplanes.
Iran Blames Foreigners For Syria Unrest RFE/RL 28 Jun 2012 -- Iran's ambassador to the UN has blamed foreigners for the bloodshed in Syria and denied any Iranian role.
Lavrov Denies Moscow Has Backed Syrian Transition Plan RFE/RL 28 Jun 2012 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has denied reports that Moscow endorsed a Syrian transition plan that includes a call for President Bashar al-Assad to give up power in favor of a national unity government.
Russia Would Not Support Intervention in Syria – Lavrov RIA Novosti 28 Jun 2012 -- Russia would not lend its support to any plans for outside interference in Syria which may be voiced at the upcoming international conference in Geneva, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said on Thursday.
Annan Calls For Transitional Syrian Government RIA Novosti 28 Jun 2012 -- The UN and Arab League envoy to Syria, Kofi Annan proposed on Wednesday to create an interim Syrian government that would include both opposition figures and those loyal to President Bashar al-Assad, Al Arabiya reported on Thursday.
Russia Will Deliver First Mi-25 Gunships to Syria on Time - Arms Official RIA Novosti 28 Jun 2012 -- The first consignment of three Mil Mi-25 helicopter gunships for Syria has been overhauled and will be delivered to the customer within the contracted time, a senior arms official said on Thursday.
Russia Favors Syrian Solution to Political Crisis VOA 28 Jun 2012 -- Russia says Syria needs a period of political transition but has rejected calls for President Bashar al-Assad to relinquish power in a possible formation of a unity government. Meanwhile, there has been a powerful explosion near the country's main court in Damascus.
Head of UN panel urges concerted action amid escalation in Syria violence UN News Centre 27 Jun 2012 -- Citing a dramatic escalation in the fighting in Syria and ongoing human rights violations, the head of a United Nations-backed inquiry today urged the international community to act to put an end to the violence in the Middle Eastern country.
Clashes Near Damascus After Assad Admits 'State Of War' RFE/RL 27 Jun 2012 -- Amid continued fighting between rebel forces and Syrian government troops, at least seven people have been reported killed in an attack on a pro-government television station..
Assad: Syria in 'State of War' RIA Novosti 27 Jun 2012 -- Syrian President Bashar al-Assad said on Wednesday his country is in 'a state of war' and ordered his new cabinet to spare no effort in crushing the 15-month-old uprising against his rule, al Jazeera television reported.
UN-Arab League Envoy: Action Group for Syria to meet on Saturday UN News Centre 27 Jun 2012 -- The Action Group for Syria will convene in Geneva, at the ministerial level, this Saturday, the Joint Special Envoy of the United Nations and the League of Arab States on the Syrian Crisis, Kofi Annan, said today.
Gunmen Attack Pro-Assad Syrian TV Station VOA 27 Jun 2012 -- Syria says rebel gunmen have stormed the headquarters of a pro-government television station, killing seven employees, while international envoy Kofi Annan announced a ministerial-level meeting later this week in Geneva that aims to end the escalating violence.
UN: Human Rights Violations in Syria Escalating VOA 27 Jun 2012 -- U.N. investigators say the situation in Syria 'is dangerously and quickly deteriorating.' They say gross violations of human rights, including torture and summary executions, are escalating and being committed by both sides. The investigators also presented their findings about a massacre in the Syrian town of Houla in May.
Assad: Syria in 'State of War' VOA 26 Jun 2012 -- Syrian President Bashar al-Assad has acknowledged that his country is in a 'state of war' as activists reported the heaviest fighting between government and rebels forces near the capital since the start of a 15-month opposition uprising.
Killing of Syrian Arab Red Crescent volunteer condemned IRNA 26 Jun 2012 -- A volunteer for the Syrian Arab Red Crescent, Bashar al-Youssef, was shot and killed Monday in Deir Ezzor, in eastern Syria. This is the fourth time since last September that a member of the Red Crescent has been killed while on duty.
Turkey Says Syria's Downing of Jet 'Serious Threat' to Peace RIA Novosti 26 Jun 2012 -- Turkey has warned the UN Security Council that Syria's downing of a Turkish military jet represents a 'serious threat' to regional security, the BBC reported on Tuesday.
Russia Urges Syria, Turkey Against Clashes RIA Novosti 26 Jun 2012 -- The downing of a Turkish jet by Syrian forces should not be considered a provocation or allowed to further destabilize the situation in the region, the Russian Foreign Ministry said on Tuesday.
Erdogan Warns Damascus of Turkey's 'Wrath' VOA 26 Jun 2012 -- Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan is ratcheting up the pressure on Syria over the shooting down of a Turkish military plane on Friday. Addressing parliament Tuesday, he launched a stinging attack on Syria's rulers, declaring the country 'a clear and present danger' and warning Damascus of the 'wrath of Turkey.'
NATO to Hold Urgent Meeting on Syria VOA 25 Jun 2012 -- Turkey is asking its NATO allies for a tough response to Syria's downing of one of its aircraft on Friday. Turkish Prime Minister Bulent Arinc says that at a hastily-arranged NATO meeting Tuesday, his country will ask that the shootdown be considered an attack on the entire alliance. That conclusion could trigger a joint military response. But experts do not expect Tuesday's meeting to actually lead to war.
Turkey Toughens Response to Syria's Downing of Military Jet VOA 25 Jun 2012 -- Turkey has toughened its response to Syria's downing of a Turkish military jet last week, saying it will ask fellow NATO members to consider the incident a Syrian attack on the whole alliance.
In call, UN chief expresses deep concern over Turkish fighter jet shot down over Syria UN News Centre 24 Jun 2012 -- United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has expressed his deep concern about the shooting down of a Turkish military jet shot over Syria – and particularly about the potential serious implications of the incident for the region – in a telephone call on Saturday with Turkey's Foreign Minister, Ahmet Davutoglu.
EU Imposes New Syria Sanctions RFE/RL 25 Jun 2012 -- The European Union has imposed fresh sanctions on Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's regime over its 15-month-long crackdown on the opposition.
EU Condemns Syria's Downing of Turkish Jet, Urges Probe RIA Novosti 25 Jun 2012 -- The foreign ministers of 27 EU members states condemned on Monday Syria's shooting down of a Turkish military plane and urged a thorough investigation into the incident.
Over 30 Syrian Army Defectors Escape to Turkey RIA Novosti 25 Jun 2012 -- Thirty-three Syrian army defectors have fled into Turkey overnight, the Turkish state-run Anadolu news agency reported on Monday, quoting officials.
Turkish Cabinet to Discuss Syrian Attack Against Jet VOA 25 Jun 2012 -- Turkey's Cabinet is to discuss the downing of a Turkish military jet last week by Syria, while Western diplomats continue their condemnation of the attack.
EU Warns Against Military Escalation in Syria VOA 25 Jun 2012 -- The European Union is warning against a military escalation in Syria, even as it condemns the country for shooting down a Turkish military jet in international airspace last week.
ICRC Asks Syrian Government for Access to Homs VOA 25 Jun 2012 -- The president of the International Committee of the Red Cross, Jakob Kellenberger, says the ICRC renewed its appeal to the Syrian government Monday for access to the besieged city of Homs to evacuate the wounded and sick. He says the ICRC also
Turkish Fighter Shootdown Concerns Panetta, Press Secretary Says AFPS 25 Jun 2012 -- Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta shares the State Department's deep concern over the June 22 shootdown by Syrian forces of a Turkish F-4 fighter and two Turkish pilots, Pentagon Press Secretary George Little said today.
Russia Reflags Syria Arms Ship RIA Novosti 25 Jun 2012 -- A Russian ship purportedly carrying helicopter gunships to Syria, which was forced to return to port, will now operate under a Russian flag, the ship's owner, Femco, said on Monday.
Russian Navy Holds on to Its Syria Base RIA Novosti 25 Jun 2012 -- Russia has no plans to abandon its naval base in Tartus, Syria, Navy chief Vice Adm. Viktor Chirkov said on Monday.
Lavrov rejects exporting military equipment to Syria IRNA 24 Jun 2012 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov denied the recent allegations by the Western media regarding dispatch of military aircraft to Syria.
NATO To Meet In Wake Of Syrian Downing Of Turkish Jet RFE/RL 24 Jun 2012 -- Turkey has called for an extraordinary meeting of the NATO military alliance to discuss what it calls Syria's "aggressive" downing of a Turkish fighter jet over the Mediterranean.
Turkey Accuses Syria of Downing Warplane in International Air Space RIA Novosti 24 Jun 2012 -- Turkey's Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoglu has accused Syria of shooting down a Turkish warplane in international air space.
Lavrov Dismisses Claims of New Helicopter Shipments to Syria RIA Novosti 24 Jun 2012 -- The Russian ship MV Alaed carried overhauled disassembled helicopters to Syria and not new gunships as was claimed by western media, Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said on Sunday.
Wreckage of Downed Turkish Plane Located RIA Novosti 24 Jun 2012 -- Rescue teams have located the wreckage of a Turkish jet shot down by Syria's air defense forces, TRT state television reported on Sunday.
Western Powers Condemn Syria for Downing Turkish Jet VOA 24 Jun 2012 -- Western powers have condemned Syria for shooting down a Turkish military jet in a maritime border area, and have pledged to cooperate with Ankara in holding Damascus to account for Friday's incident.
Syrian president forms new government IRNA 23 Jun 2012 -- Syrian President Bashar al-Assad formed a new government with Foreign Minister Walid al-Moallem, the defence and interior ministers remaining in their posts.
Syria Says Intercepts Turkish Fighter RIA Novosti 23 Jun 2012 -- The Syrian armed forces command said it had shot down a Turkish F-4 Phantom fighter over Syria, Syrian state news agency SANA reported on Saturday.
Turkey, Syria Not Yet Found Pilots of Downed Jet RIA Novosti 23 Jun 2012 -- The Naval Forces of Turkey and Syria have not yet found two pilots of the Turkish warplane, shot down by Syria's air defense forces on Friday, in the Mediterranean Sea during a two-day search and rescue activities, Turkey's NTV television channel reported on Saturday.
Turkey's President: Warplane May Have Crossed Syrian Border VOA 23 Jun 2012 -- ISTANBUL, Turkey - Syria says it shot down a Turkish fighter jet because it trespassed on Syria's territorial waters. In Turkey, the government has reacted carefully and cautiously to this potentially explosive incident; the prime minister says Turkey will respond once all the facts are known. A search is still under way for the two pilots from the downed plane.
Russia Flexes Diplomatic Muscle on Syria VOA 22 Jun 2012 -- Amid reports that Russian Navy ships are preparing to steam to Syria, Russia intensified its diplomacy on Syria.
Turkish PM: Turkish Warplane Missing Off Syria VOA 22 Jun 2012 -- Turkey's Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan says a Turkish air force jet has gone down over Syrian waters.
Erdogan Says Turkey Probing Jet Disappearance; Reports Of Syria Apology RFE/RL 22 Jun 2012 -- Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan has said he cannot confirm a missing Turkish warplane was downed by Syria.
Turkish PM: No Confirmation Jet Shot down by Syria RIA Novosti 22 Jun 2012 -- Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan has not confirmed reports that a Turkish air force jet F-4 was shot down by Syrian forces.
Humanitarian situation in Syria continues to worsen – UN relief agency UN News Centre 22 Jun 2012 -- The United Nations relief coordination agency said that the humanitarian situation in Syria continues to deteriorate.
Annan: Crisis In Syria Must Be Prevented From Spiraling Out Of Control VOA 22 Jun 2012 -- Joint Special Envoy for Syria, Kofi Annan, says he hopes it will be possible to convene a high-level meeting of ministers at the end of the month to try to push the Syrian peace process forward.
UN-Arab League envoy cites need to raise pressure on Syria UN News Centre 22 Jun 2012 -- The Joint Special Envoy of the United Nations and the League of Arab States on the Syrian Crisis, Kofi Annan, cited the need to increase international pressure on the parties to end the ongoing conflict.
UN Envoy: 'Raise the Level of Pressure' on Syrian Government, Opposition VOA 22 Jun 2012 -- The U.N. envoy for Syria says it is time for countries to "raise the level of pressure" to end violence in the country.
Annan Says Time To Raise Pressure On Syria, Rebels RFE/RL 22 Jun 2012 -- The UN-Arab League envoy for Syria says countries with influence should to step up the pressure on Syria and rebel groups to end violence in the country.
Syria Ready for 'Synchronized Pullout' - Russia RIA Novosti 22 Jun 2012 -- The Syrian leadership has told Russia it is ready to withdraw its armed forces from the country's cities in parallel with the forces of the Syrian opposition.
France Urges Syrian Troops to Defect RIA Novosti 22 Jun 2012 -- France urges Syrian military personnel to follow the example of fighter pilot Hassan Hammadeh and defect.
Iran Must Participate in Syria Talks - Moscow RIA Novosti 22 Jun 2012 -- Moscow dismissed on Friday U.S. and British objections to Iran’s participation in an international conference on Syria.
Iran’s participation in Intl. Geneva meeting on Syria a necessity IRNA 22 Jun 2012 -- Deputy Secretary General of Arab League Ahmed Ben Helli said Iran must participate in International Meeting of Syria in Geneva on June 30.
Russian 'Syria Arms' Ship Docks at Novorossiysk RIA Novosti 22 Jun 2012 -- A Russian warship which some media reports claimed was carrying arms destined for Syria has arrived at the Russian Black Sea port of Novorossiysk.
Report: US Helping Syrian Rebels Arm, Fight VOA 21 Jun 2012 -- Syrian rebels fighting to overthrow President Bashar al-Assad may be getting some added help from the United States.
Most Turks Oppose Taking Sides in Syrian Conflict VOA 21 Jun 2012 -- Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan has been among the strongest opponents of the Syrian government and its ongoing violent crackdown on dissent.
Rising Death Toll in Syria Prompts Calls for Western Intervention VOA 21 Jun 2012 -- The United Nations says at least 10,000 Syrians are dead and 1 million are in need of assistance in a conflict that appears to be spiraling towards civil war.
Syria Said to Possess Vast Quantities of Chemical Weapons VOA 21 Jun 2012 -- The Syrian Army is by regional standards a highly-capable military force and its air force is one of the largest in the Middle East.
U.S. to Maintain Pressure on Assad Regime, Press Secretary Says AFPS 21 Jun 2012 -- The U.S. will continue to apply economic and diplomatic pressure on Syrian dictator Bashar Assad’s regime and it encourages Syrians to resist.
Lavrov Denies Russia 'Changed Stance' on Syria RIA Novosti 21 Jun 2012 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has rejected recent comments by British Prime Minister David Cameron that Russia has changed its stance on Syria.
Red Cross Evacuation in Homs On Hold VOA 21 Jun 2012 -- Attempts by the Red Cross to evacuate civilians from the battered northern Syrian city of Homs appear to be stalled, as government forces continue their military offensive.
Violence in Homs Blocks Evacuation of Wounded VOA 21 Jun 2012 -- Aid teams from the ICRC and the Syrian Red Crescent said that violence has forced them to halt attempts to evacuate wounded civilians from Homs.
Syrian Fighter Pilot Defects in Jordan VOA 21 Jun 2012 -- Jordan's information ministry says a Syrian fighter pilot has landed at a military base in Jordan and asked for political asylum.
Syrian MiG Fighter Jet Defects to Jordan RIA Novosti 21 Jun 2012 -- A Syrian Air Force MiG-21 fighter pilot has flown his aircraft to Jordan and landed at an air force base, Jordan's Minister of Media Affairs and Communications Samih Maaytah said.
Russia's Lavrov Confirms Ship Was Carrying Helicopters To Syria RFE/RL 21 Jun 2012 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov says a cargo ship that was forced to turn back toward Russia was carrying three military helicopters bound for the Syrian regime.
Russian Ship Carrying Syrian Attack Helicopters Returns Home RIA Novosti 21 Jun 2012 -- The Russian ship MV Alaed, carrying a cargo of overhauled Russian-made Mil Mi-25 helicopter gunships bound for Syria, will dock in the north Russian port of Murmansk on Saturday.
Can a Moderate Kurd Unite Syrian Revolution? VOA 20 Jun 2012 -- The Syrian National Council announced earlier this month the selection of Abdulbaset Sieda to lead the opposition group.
Syrian Air Force One of Middle East's Largest VOA 20 Jun 2012 -- The Syrian air force is one of the largest in the Middle East, with 30,000 members and composed of aircraft provided first by the Soviet Union and, later, by Russia.
Activist Fears Syria Will Become 'New Somalia' VOA 20 Jun 2012 -- Syrian rights activists say violence across the country has killed at least 53 people.
UN Observers Committed To Syria RFE/RL 20 Jun 2012 -- The head of the UN observer mission in Syria says UN forces there have come under fire recently but are committed to staying in the country.
Syrian Crisis Should Be Resolved Constitutionally - Putin RIA Novosti 20 Jun 2012 -- The crisis in Syria should only be resolved by constitutional means, Russian President Vladimir Putin said.
Syria: chief UN observer says suffering of civilian population getting worse UN News Centre 19 Jun 2012 -- The suffering of the Syrian people is getting worse amid escalating violence in the country, the head of the United Nations mission there said.
UN Syria Chief: Violence Impeded Mission’s Work VOA 19 Jun 2012 -- The head of the U.N. monitoring mission in Syria said he suspended patrols by observers because of security concerns.
UN Members Differ on Conditions for Withdrawing Syria Observers VOA 19 Jun 2012 -- U.N. diplomats say Syria's increasing violence is forcing them to consider an early end to the country's U.N. observer mission.
Syrian Army is Capable Military Force, Say Experts VOA 19 Jun 2012 -- Fighting between heavily armed Syrian government troops and lightly-equipped opposition forces continues as diplomatic efforts seem to make little headway.
Syria Conflict Puts Hezbollah Ally in Delicate Position VOA 19 Jun 2012 -- The conflict in Syria is having a spillover effect on many of its neighbors and placing some allies of the Syrian government in a delicate position.
UN Observers Chief To Brief Security Council On Syria RFE/RL 19 Jun 2012 -- The head of the United Nations observer mission in Syria, General Robert Mood, is set to brief the UN Security Council.
Syria Says Ready to Evacuate Civilians From Bombarded Homs VOA 19 Jun 2012 -- Syria says it is ready to act on a U.N. appeal to evacuate civilians from the rebellious central city of Homs.
Syrian Authorities Ready to Evacuate Trapped Civilians RIA Novosti 19 Jun 2012 -- Syrian authorities are ready to evacuate civilians trapped in regions occupied by militants and armed anti-government groups without preconditions.
Russia Resupplying Base in Syria, DOD Spokesman Says AFPS 19 Jun 2012 -- Defense Department spokesman said three other Russian vessels will carry supplies and possibly troops to the Russian naval base at the Syrian port of Tartus.
Russian Ship Suspected of Carrying Arms to Syria Turns Back VOA 19 Jun 2012 -- A cargo ship believed to be carrying Russian-made attack helicopters has been halted on its way to Syria after its insurance coverage was withdrawn.
Russian Ship ‘Carrying Arms' to Syria 'Turns Back' - Hague RIA Novosti 19 Jun 2012 -- British Foreign Secretary William Hague: A Russian cargo ship reported to be carrying arms to Syria has changed its course and is returning home.
Russian Ship Stopped Over Suspected Arms Shipment to Syria VOA 19 Jun 2012 -- A British insurance company has cancelled insurance for a Russian ship it believes is carrying munitions to Syria, effectively halting the vessel unless another insurer agrees to cover it.
British Insurer Pulls Cover on Russian Arms Ship RIA Novosti 19 Jun 2012 -- A British marine insurer has withdrawn cover from a Russian ship believed to be carrying overhauled combat helicopters to Syria, after finding out there were weapons on-board.
Moscow Denies Sending Warship to Syria RIA Novosti 19 Jun 2012 -- The Russian Defense Ministry denied media reports that it is sending a warship from the Baltic Sea Fleet to Syria and it also dismissed reports of upcoming foreign military exercises in the Middle Eastern country.
Warship Heads for ‘Test’ as Navy Denies Syria Role RIA Novosti 19 Jun 2012 -- A Russian amphibious landing ship, the Caesar Kunikov left the Black Sea port of Sevastopol for what a a Black Sea Fleet officer said was a routine exercise at a training base.
Putin, Obama Urge Syria Peace But no Deal on Assad RIA Novosti 19 Jun 2012 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Barack Obama made a joint call for an immediate cessation of the violence in Syria.
Obama, Putin Discuss Syria Crisis At G20 RFE/RL 19 Jun 2012 -- U.S. President Barack Obama and Russian President Vladimir Putin have met on the sidelines of the G20 summit in Mexico in their first bilateral talks since Putin returned for a third term in May.
Explainer: Why Is Access To Syria's Port At Tartus So Important To Moscow? RFE/RL 19 Jun 2012 -- More than its weapons sales to the regime of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, Russia's greatest strategic and geopolitical interest in Syria is the use of a deep-water port at Tartus.
Remarks by President Obama and President Putin of Rusia After Bilateral Meeting The White House 18 Jun 2012
Joint Statement by the President of the United States of America Barack Obama and the President of the Russian Federation Vladimir Putin The White House 18 Jun 2012
Dozens More Killed in Syrian Violence VOA 18 Jun 2012 -- Syrian activists say violence across the country Monday killed at least 56 people.
Russia Urges Resumption of UN Observer Mission in Syria RIA Novosti 18 Jun 2012 -- Russia believes members of the UN observer mission in Syria should resume work once their personal security can be ensured in full.
Obama: Tensions With Russia Can be Worked Out VOA 18 Jun 2012 -- U.S. President Barack Obama says tensions with Russia can be worked out following talks with the Russian president spanning a range of topics, including Syria, Iran and trade.
UN official highlights situation in Syria at opening of Human Rights Council session UN News Centre 18 Jun 2012 -- UN human rights chief called on the international community to overcome differences in order to end the violence and human rights violations in Syria.
UN Official Says Syria May Be Guilty Of War Crimes VOA 18 Jun 2012 -- Navi Pillay: Syrian government of President Bashar al-Assad may be guilty of war crimes for the killing of innocent civilians.
UN Rights Chief Accuses Syrian Regime Of War Crimes RFE/RL 18 Jun 2012 -- The United Nations' human rights chief has accused the Syrian government of committing crimes against humanity by attacking towns with heavy weapons.
Russia Reportedly Sending Warships To Syria RFE/RL 18 Jun 2012 -- Russia is reportedly preparing to send two navy ships with an unspecified number of marines on a mission to protect Russian citizens and a Russian base in Syria.
Head of UN mission appeals for release of civilians trapped in Syria violence UN News Centre 17 Jun 2012 -- The chief United Nations observer in Syria has appealed to the parties to enable civilians trapped by the escalating violence to leave conflict zones.
Syrian Government Forces Escalate Attacks VOA 17 Jun 2012 -- Syrian government forces stepped up their attacks across the country Sunday, employing artillery barrages in the flashpoint city of Homs, as well as the suburbs of Damascus and Aleppo, and the towns of Rastan, Telbiseh and Deir ez Zor.
Russia Rejects Media Reports of Sending Warship to Syria RIA Novosti 17 Jun 2012 -- The media reports that a large Russian amphibious ship carrying weapons and troops was en route to Syria are false, a source in the Russian Black Sea Fleet told RIA Novosti on Sunday.
UN Observers Suspend Syrian Mission RIA Novosti 16 Jun 2012 -- The U.N. observers in Syria suspended on Saturday their mission 'until further notice' because of the intensifying violence, Al Jazeera reported, citing the statement by General Robert Mood, the head of the UN Stabilization Mission in Syria.
Russian Shipping Company Denies Arms Deliveries to Syria RIA Novosti 16 Jun 2012 -- Russia's Universal Cargo Logistics Holding (UCL Holding), owned by billionaire Vladimir Lisin, dismissed on Saturday media reports claiming that the company's vessel had shipped weapons to violence-hit Syria, UCL Holding said.
UN suspends monitoring activities in Syria amid escalating violence UN News Centre 16 Jun 2012 -- The United Nations observer mission in Syria has suspended its activities owing to an intensification of armed violence across the country over the past 10 days, its chief announced today.
UN Suspends Syria Mission VOA 16 Jun 2012 -- The head of the United Nations observer mission in Syria (UNSMIS) General Robert Mood told journalists in Damascus Saturday that he was suspending operations and that observers would stay put and stop conducting patrols 'until further notice.'
Russia Digs In on Assad as Violence Intensifies VOA 15 Jun 2012 -- The head of the U.N. observer force in Syria has accused both rebels and government troops of stoking violence in the country.
Syria: UN mission chief warns of impact of growing violence UN News Centre 15 Jun 2012 -- The head of the United Nations Supervision Mission in Syria warned that escalating violence in the Middle Eastern country is hampering the ability of UN observers to carry out their work.
Syrian Forces Accused of Sexually Assaulting Detainees VOA 15 Jun 2012 -- Human Rights Watch says Syrian government forces are using sexual violence to torture men, women, and boys detained during the country's 15-month uprising.
Lavrov: No Russia Talk Of Post-Assad Government RFE/RL 15 Jun 2012 -- FM Lavrov says Russia has not been taking part in discussions with the US or other countries about a political transformation in Syria that would involve President Bashar al-Assad leaving office.
Moscow Denies Holding Talks Over Assad Exit RIA Novosti 15 Jun 2012 -- Russia's FM Lavrov denied on Friday that Russia was conducting talks with other nations on an exit plan for Syria's embattled President Bashar al-Assad.
U.S., Russia Discuss Post-Assad Transition in Syria RIA Novosti 15 Jun 2012 -- The US and Russia continue discussions on a post-Assad transition strategy despite some disagreements on approaches to the settlement of a political crisis in Syria.
Is Syria Seeing Start Of Sectarian War? RFE/RL 15 Jun 2012 -- As violence grows in Syria, many warn it could turn sectarian.
Russia Denies Syria Helicopter Deliveries RIA Novosti 15 Jun 2012 -- Russia is not delivering new military helicopters to Syria, the Russian Foreign Ministry's information deparment said.
France Offers Communications Gear to Syrian Opposition RIA Novosti 15 Jun 2012 -- France is ready to supply communications equipment to the Syrian opposition and to individuals and is ready to make the shipments on its own.
'Stench of dead bodies' in the air, UN team says on reaching Syrian town of al-Haffeh UN News Centre 14 Jun 2012 -- United Nations observers, having finally entered al-Haffeh today, reported that the Syrian town appeared deserted, with many buildings burned down and the “strong stench of dead bodies” in the air.
US bolsters ties to fighters in Syria: Wall Street Journal IRNA 14 Jun 2012 -- U.S. intelligence operatives and diplomats have stepped up their contacts with Syrian rebels in part to help organize their burgeoning military operations against President Bashar al-Assad's forces, The Wall Street Journal said on Thursday.
Russia, United States Spar Over Syria RFE/RL 14 Jun 2012 -- Russia and the United States have sparred over the violence in Syria.
Syria Not Facing 'Civil War' – Foreign Ministry RIA Novosti 14 Jun 2012 -- Syria is not witnessing a 'civil war' but rather a struggle to uproot the plague of terrorism, abduction and payment of ransoms, aggressions and explosions,' the Syrian Foreign Ministry said on Thursday in the wake of recent claims by UN officials.
Clinton Warns Russia on Syria Policy RIA Novosti 14 Jun 2012 -- U.S. State Secretary Hillary Clinton warned Russia that its support for Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's regime will have negative consequences for it.
UN Observers Enter Battered Syrian Town VOA 14 Jun 2012 -- United Nations observers arrived in the Syrian town of al-Haffeh Thursday after government forces overran the opposition enclave, while Syria's envoy to Moscow denied that Russia is supplying Syria with attack helicopters.
China Rejects Syria Sanctions VOA 14 Jun 2012 -- China says it does not approve of using sanctions to address the crisis in Syria, a day after France's foreign minister discussed possible measures to enforce a faltering cease-fire plan.
UN emergency fund provides nearly $10 million to boost aid to Syrian refugees UN News Centre 13 Jun 2012 -- The United Nations humanitarian arm has provided nearly $10 million in fresh funding in recent weeks to assist Syrian refugees in Lebanon, Turkey and Jordan.
US has incurred heavy defeat in Syria despite huge spending IRNA 13 Jun 2012 -- Vice chairman of Chiefs of Staff of the armed forces Brigadier General Masoud Jazayeri said on Wednesday that the US along with its puppet regimes in the region and certain European states have incrred another heavy setback depite spending huge sum to oust the Syrian government.
Russia Accuses U.S. Of Arming Syrian Opposition Fighters RFE/RL 13 Jun 2012 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has accused Washington of providing weapons to the Syrian opposition for their fight against pro-government forces.
U.S. Senator Challenges Pentagon over Russian Arms to Syria RIA Novosti 13 Jun 2012 -- A U.S. Senator has called on the Pentagon to take action against Russia's state arms exporter Rosoboronexport, which he claims is 'arming the Assad regime' in Syria.
Russia Rejects U.S. Allegations on Arms Deliveries to Syria RIA Novosti 13 Jun 2012 -- Russia dismissed on Wednesday claims by U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton that it was selling attack helicopters to Syria and accused the United States of arming rebels fighting against the rule of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad.
Russia Defends Arms Sale to Syria, Blasts US VOA 13 Jun 2012 -- Russia on Wednesday defended its sale of arms to Syria and stepped up the rhetoric by accusing the United States of providing weapons to the Syrian rebels.
Syria: Rebel Enclave 'Cleansed,' Retaken VOA 13 Jun 2012 -- Syrian state television says government forces have retaken control of the rebellious western town of al-Haffeh after a week of heavy fighting that led the United States to warn of a potential massacre.
Syria: UN observers blocked from entering town of al-Haffeh, fired at upon departure UN News Centre 12 Jun 2012 -- Following repeated efforts, UN observers were unable to reach the Syrian town of al-Haffeh today as angry crowds surrounded their vehicles, stopping them from proceeding any further, after which they were shot at as they departed.
Clinton Challenges Russia on Syria VOA 12 Jun 2012 -- U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton said Tuesday the U.S. is concerned about reports Russia is sending attack helicopters to Syria.
Iran cautions foreign powers against military intervention in Syria IRNA 12 Jun 2012 -- Foreign Ministry spokesman Ramin Mehmanparast on Tuesday cautioned foreign powers against military intervention in Syria.
Annan 'Gravely Concerned' Over Rising Violence In Syria RFE/RL 12 Jun 2012 -- International envoy Kofi Annan says he is "gravely concerned" over rising violence in Syria and reports that civilians are trapped in cities besieged by government forces.
Russia's Rosoboronexport to Continue Arms Supplies to Syria RIA Novosti 12 Jun 2012 -- Russia's state-controlled arms trader Rosoboronexport intends to fulfill its contract for the supply of armaments to Syria, Rosoboronexport Deputy CEO Igor Sevastyanov said on Tuesday.
UN Observers Concerned over Syria Violence Escalation RIA Novosti 12 Jun 2012 -- UN observers in Syria are worried that violence escalates around the Syrian opposition stronghold city of Homs, the UN reported.
Britain Warns Syria Follows Path of Balkans VOA 12 Jun 2012 -- Britain has warned that Syria risks becoming 'the next Bosnia.'
Heavy Fighting Continues in Syria VOA 12 Jun 2012 -- Syrian forces continued to attack rebel strongholds Tuesday, with activist groups saying mortar shells hit anti-government protesters in the eastern town of Deir al-Zour, killing 10 people as fighting raged elsewhere.
UN-Arab League envoy ‘gravely concerned’ over latest reports of violence in Syria UN News Centre 11 Jun 2012 -- The Joint Special Envoy of the United Nations and the Arab League for the Syrian Crisis, Kofi Annan, is gravely concerned by the latest reports of violence.
Syria: UN observers concerned over escalation of violence in city of Homs UN News Centre 11 Jun 2012 -- Amidst reports of heavy fighting, United Nations observers in Syria are concerned over the escalation of violence in the city of Homs, a Syrian opposition stronghold.
Syrian Troops Pound Rebel Strongholds VOA 11 Jun 2012 -- Syrian forces are continuing to attack rebel-held areas across the country as international envoy Kofi Annan voices deep concern about the latest violence.
Lavrov to Discuss Global Conference on Syria with Iran RIA Novosti 11 Jun 2012 -- Russian FM Sergei Lavrov will visit Iran on June 13 to discuss Russia’s proposal for convening an international conference on Syria.
Syria’s Chemical Weapons May End Up in Terrorist Hands RIA Novosti 11 Jun 2012 -- The Syrian stockpiles of chemical weapons may end up in the hands of terrorists as the ruling regime and anti-government forces continue fierce fighting.
Syria Opposition Group Elects New Leader RIA Novosti 10 Jun 2012 -- Syria's main opposition group, the Syrian National Council (SNC), has elected a Kurdish activist as its new leader at a meeting in Istanbul, al Jazeera television reported.
Syrian Opposition Group Elects New Leader, More Deaths Reported VOA 10 Jun 2012 -- Syria's main exiled opposition group has elected a Kurdish academic to try to unify the movement after months of infighting, and activists report at least 19 more deaths in government shelling and clashes across the country.
New Syrian Opposition Leader Reaches Out to Other Groups VOA 10 Jun 2012 -- ISTANBUL - The new leader of the main opposition Syrian National Council is pledging to widen support for the organization by reaching out to Syria's minority groups.
ICRC says Syria fighting affects 1.5m people, making appeal to donors to save civilians IRNA 09 Jun 2012 -- Syria fighting affected 1.5 million people, whether directly or indirectly. The International Committee of the Red Cross made appeal to donors to help civilians caught by hostility in Syria.
Moscow Says Its Concern Over Syria Grows RFE/RL 09 Jun 2012 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov says Moscow's concern about Syria's conflict is growing but that Moscow will continue to oppose the outside use of force.
Russian Arms for Syria No Threat to Protesters - Lavrov RIA Novosti 09 Jun 2012 -- Russia is completing deliveries of air defense weapons to Syria under contracts concluded earlier and is not supplying any arms that can be used against protesters, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said on Saturday.
Syria on Brink of Civil Conflict - Russian Foreign Minister RIA Novosti 09 Jun 2012 -- The situation in Syria is teetering on the brink of full-fledged civil conflict, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said on Saturday.
17 Killed in Deraa's Shelling in Syria RIA Novosti 09 Jun 2012 -- Seventeen people, including ten women were killed on Saturday during the shelling of Syrian southern town of Deraa, London-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (OSDH) said.
25 Killed in Syria Violence VOA 09 Jun 2012 -- Anti-government-related violence across Syria left more than two dozen people dead Saturday, while Russia said it would not object to the departure of Syria's president, under certain conditions.
Syria's Opposition Chooses New Leader VOA 09 Jun 2012 -- Members of the Syrian National Council, the main coordinator of opposition groups in that violence-torn nation, are gathering in Istanbul Saturday for a two-day meeting to elect a new leader. This follows the resignation last month of Burhan Ghalioun, who was the target of increasing criticism from members of the opposition coalition.
Secretary Clinton Remarks With UN-Arab League Joint Special Envoy for Syria Kofi Annan Before Their Meeting US Dept. of State 08 Jun 2012
Shots Target UN Monitors in Syria VOA 08 Jun 2012 -- The United Nations says its unarmed monitors in Syria were shot at and blocked from investigating the site of a newly reported mass killing.
UN Observers At Alleged Syria Massacres Site As Diplomatic Pressure Spikes RFE/RL 08 Jun 2012 -- UN observers have reached a central Syrian village where a massacre has reportedly taken place.
After earlier obstructions, UN observers reach reported location of massacre in Syria UN News Centre 08 Jun 2012 -- After earlier obstructions, UN observers reached the Syrian village of Mazraat al-Qubeir, where a massacre of civilians reportedly took place.
Clinton, Annan to Discuss Syria Crisis VOA 08 Jun 2012 -- U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton is discussing the Syria crisis Friday with United Nations-Arab League envoy Kofi Annan, who has warned of an all out civil war in the country if the situation does not change course.
Annan, Clinton Meet on Syria as Violence Escalates VOA 08 Jun 2012 -- international envoy Kofi Annan called for additional pressure on the Syrian government as he met with U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton in Washington.
U.S., Russian Officials Meeting On Syrian Crisis RFE/RL 08 Jun 2012 -- U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton's diplomatic coordinator on the Syrian conflict is meeting Russian officials in a bid to find common ground on how to respond to the crisis.
U.S. Delegation Visits Moscow as Syria Crisis Deepens RIA Novosti 08 Jun 2012 -- U.S. State Department officials met with Russian Foreign Ministry diplomats in Moscow to try to hammer out a common position on the escalating crisis in Syria.
Analysis: Principles or pragmatism? Negotiating access in Syria IRIN 08 Jun 2012 -- A Syrian government response plan satisfies minimum humanitarian principles of neutrality and impartiality but falls short of the unhindered access the international humanitarian community was calling for.
Secretary Clinton Remarks With Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoglu After Their Meeting US Dept. of State 07 Jun 2012
Statement by the Press Secretary on Syria The White House 07 Jun 2012
At Security Council’s request, Ban to explore a ‘variety of options’ for way ahead in Syria UN News Centre 07 Jun 2012 -- At the request of the Security Council, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon will soon put forward a range of options for resolving the crisis in Syria.
UN's Ban Says Syrian Regime Has Lost Legitimacy RFE/RL 07 Jun 2012 -- UN Secretary-General Ban has said that President Bashar al-Assad's regime has lost all legitimacy and warned about the danger of an all-out civil war in Syria.
Annan: Take Syria Response to 'Another Level' VOA 07 Jun 2012 -- U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and U.N.-Arab League envoy Kofi Annan led increased diplomatic pressure on Syria following reports of another massacre that killed dozens of Syrians.
Syria Peace Plan ‘Not Being Implemented’ – Annan RIA Novosti 07 Jun 2012 -- UN special envoy Kofi Annan said his six-point peace plan aimed to stop violence in Syria is "not being implemented."
With Syria at pivotal moment, UN officials press for united action to end crisis UN News Centre 07 Jun 2012 --United Nations officials urged the world community to act with one voice to end the crisis in the Middle Eastern country.
UN observers in Syria obstructed in attempts to reach site of reported massacre UN News Centre 07 Jun 2012 -- United Nations observers in Syria have been obstructed in their attempts to reach the village of Mazraat al-Qubeir today, to verify reports of large-scale killings there.
Clinton: Democratic Syria Impossible with Assad VOA 07 Jun 2012 -- U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton says Syria cannot be peaceful, stable or democratic with President Bashar al-Assad in power.
Clinton Calls Latest Syria Violence 'Unconscionable,' Demands Assad Exit RFE/RL 07 Jun 2012 -- U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton says the violence in Syria is "simply unconscionable."
Clinton Calls for Sanctions Against Assad RIA Novosti 07 Jun 2012 -- The United States that leads the Friends of Syria group has called on members of the international community to introduce separate sanctions against the Bashar al-Assad regime.
Russia Calls Hama Massacre ‘Despicable Provocation’ RIA Novosti 07 Jun 2012 -- Moscow considers a new massacre in Syria as a vicious and despicable provocation aimed at hampering implementation of the Annan plan.
Scores Killed in New Massacre, Syrian Opposition Claims RIA Novosti 07 Jun 2012 -- Opposition activists and the Syrian government have both accused the other of responsibility for the deaths of scores of civilians in a new massacre.
Damascus asks for objectivity of Annan proposal IRNA 07 Jun 2012 -- International mediator Kofi Annan’s upcoming proposal for the resolution of Syrian crisis should not be affected by pressure of certain countries.
SCO Leaders Reject Force In Iran, Syria RFE/RL 07 Jun 2012 -- Leaders of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization meeting in Beijing have opposed any international use of force in Iran, saying such a move could threaten global security.
SCO Security Alliance Opposes Syria Intervention VOA 07 Jun 2012 -- A regional security alliance led by China and Russia announced its opposition to outside intervention in the Syrian crisis in a joint statement released.
Lavrov Guarantees 'No External Intervention' in Syria RIA Novosti 07 Jun 2012 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said on Thursday that the UN Security Council would not allow a mandate on the intervention into Syria.
Press Conference by General Assembly President, 06 June 2012 United Nations 06 Jun 2012
UN GA President ‘disappointed’ over continuing violence in Syria UN News Centre 06 Jun 2012 -- The President of the General Assembly expressed his disappointment over the lack of progress in ending the violence in Syria.
Secretary Clinton Statement: Friends of the Syrian People Sanctions Working Group US Dept. of State 06 Jun 2012
U.S. Warns Of UN Sanctions Against Syria RFE/RL 06 Jun 2012 -- The US has warned Syria that tough economic sanctions may soon be imposed on Damascus as punishment for its violent campaign against citizens calling for regime change.
Syrian Activists: At Least 78 Killed Near Hama VOA 06 Jun 2012 -- Syrian activists say pro-government militia and security forces have killed at least 78 people, including women and children, in the central province of Hama.
Syrian Troops Kill 7 in Coastal Area VOA 06 Jun 2012 -- A Syrian rights group says government troops have killed at least seven people in a second day of fighting with rebels.
Clinton Asks Russia, China to Help in Syria Crisis RIA Novosti 06 Jun 2012 -- U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton called on China and Russia to apply its influence on Damascus to stop the bloodshed in Syria.
Moscow Calls for Meeting on Annan Plan Support RIA Novosti 06 Jun 2012 -- Countries that have influence on the Syrian opposition should hold a meeting to outline measures in support of the peace plan proposed by Kofi Annan.
Assad Names New Prime Minister To Form Syrian Government RFE/RL 06 Jun 2012 -- Syrian state-run television says President Bashar al-Assad has named former agriculture minister Riyad Hijab to be the new prime minister.
U.S. Allocates $12.8 Mln of Humanitarian Aid for Syria RIA Novosti 06 Jun 2012 -- The United States has allocated $12.8 million of humanitarian aid to Syria bringing the total sum of the assistance provided to over $52 million.
Analysts: In Syria, Few Arab Spring Lessons Apply VOA 05 Jun 2012 -- In the past year and a half, uprisings across the Arab world have toppled four men whose rule had lasted decades.
Analysts Discuss Russia's Role in Syria VOA 05 Jun 2012 -- There are concerns in the international community that diplomatic efforts to stop the violence in Syria are failing and that the situation could spiral into all-out civil war, with consequences throughout the region.
New Syria Clashes, Government Expels Envoys VOA 05 Jun 2012 -- Fierce clashes between government troops and opposition forces in Syria's western Latakia province are further dimming hopes that diplomats can salvage a cease-fire and end the bloodshed.
Syria Grants Humanitarian Access As It Expels Western Diplomats RFE/RL 05 Jun 2012 -- The Syrian government has agreed to allow 17 UN agencies and nongovernmental organizations into the country.
Syria to Pull Diplomats RIA Novosti 05 Jun 2012 -- Syria announced that it will withdraw its ambassadors from France, Italy, Spain, Switzerland, the United Kingdom and the United States, and withdraw its charge d'affaires from Belgium, Bulgaria and Canada.
China, Russia United Against Intervention in Syria VOA 05 Jun 2012 -- China says it remains united with Russia in opposing foreign intervention in Syria's conflict, as Syria barred a number of U.S. and European diplomats.
Russia, China Call For Support Of Annan's Syria Plan RFE/RL 05 Jun 2012 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin and his Chinese counterpart, Hu Jintao, have jointly urged the international community to support the peace plan put forward by United Nations-Arab League envoy Kofi Annan to resolve the Syrian conflict.
Syria’s Assad Must Go As Soon As Possible – White House RIA Novosti 05 Jun 2012 -- The sooner Syrian President Bashar al-Assad cedes power in the country the better the chances that a bloody sectarian war will be avoided, White House Press Secretary Jay Carney said.
Russia Dismayed by Syria Rebels Ceasefire Rejection RIA Novosti 05 Jun 2012 -- Russia is disappointed in the decision by Syrian rebels to pull out of a ceasefire that was an integral part of a United Nations peace plan.
Free Syrian Army Rebels Abandon Cease-Fire VOA 04 Jun 2012 -- The rebel Free Syrian Army says it is no longer bound by a United Nations-backed cease-fire agreement.
Dozens of Syrian Soldiers Killed as Diplomacy Stalls VOA 04 Jun 2012 -- Diplomacy again stalled on Syria as clashes continued.
Deadly Clashes In Syria As EU, Russia Seek Resolution RFE/RL 04 Jun 2012 -- Syrian government troops fought deadly battles with armed rebels as the European Union.
EU, Russia Agree Annan Plan Best Hope for Syria Peace RIA Novosti 04 Jun 2012 -- European Union and Russia agree that United Nations envoy Kofi Annan’s faltering peace plan remains the best chance to bring calm to the troubled Middle East country.
Rompuy Says EU, Russia Agree Annan's Syria Plan Is 'Best Opportunity' RFE/RL 04 Jun 2012 -- Moscow and the EU "fully agree" that the peace plan brokered by United Nations-Arab league envoy Kofi Annan provides "the best opportunity" to avoid civil war in Syria.
EU, Putin Spar Over Human Rights, Trade, Syria VOA 04 Jun 2012 -- European officials met with Russian President Vladimir Putin to discuss a variety of issues including the Kremlin’s human rights record, trade and the Syria crisis, among other things.
Putin to Face EU Pressure on Syria RIA Novosti 04 Jun 2012 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin is expected to face more calls to increase pressure on his embattled Syrian counterpart Bashar al-Assad.
Syria In Focus At EU-Russia Summit RFE/RL 04 Jun 2012 -- Syria is expected to dominate the agenda when Russian and EU leaders hold talks in St. Petersburg on June 4.
Assad Says Syria Faces War 'Waged From Outside' RFE/RL 03 Jun 2012 -- Speaking to parliament on June 3, President Bashar al-Assad said Syria was "facing a real war waged from the outside" and vowed there will be no compromise in the fight with "terrorism."
Syria on the Brink of War Instigated from Abroad - Assad RIA Novosti 03 Jun 2012 -- Syria faces a 'real war' waged by external forces, Syria's President Bashar al-Assad said on Sunday in a speech to parliament broadcast by Syrian television.
UN Human Rights Resolution on Syria Beyond Mandate – Lavrov RIA Novosti 03 Jun 2012 -- The UN Human Rights Council resolution on the Houla massacre in Syria goes beyond its mandate and contradicts the UN Security Council's May 27 statement, Russia's Foreign Ministry said on Sunday.
Annan's Plan Indispensable for Syria Crisis Settlement – Lavrov RIA Novosti 03 Jun 2012 -- Moscow believes the UN-Arab League envoy Kofi Annan's plan is the indispensable foundation for settlement of Syria's protracted political crisis, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said on Sunday.
Clinton: Russia Needs to Back Syrian Transition to Remove Assad VOA 03 Jun 2012 -- U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton is urging Russia to help start a political transition in Syria, the outcome of which she says will be President Bashar al-Assad's ouster.
Syria's Assad Denies Responsibility for Houla Massacre VOA 03 Jun 2012 -- Syria's president has dismissed accusations his government was responsible for the recent massacre of 108 civilians in the town of Houla. He also charges that forces outside Syria are plotting to destroy the country.
Annan Says Danger Of All-Out War In Syria Increasing RFE/RL 02 Jun 2012 -- International peace envoy Kofi Annan has warned that the "specter of all-out war" is increasing in Syria and that President Bashar al-Assad has the first responsibility to end the conflict peacefully.
Syria Casts Shadow Over Putin's Trip To Germany, France RFE/RL 02 Jun 2012 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin met in Paris with his French counterpart Francois Hollande on June 1 and at a press conference the two leaders showed that, although they agree on the need for an end to hostilities in Syria, they disagree over the way to achieve it.
Russia Has No Special Interests in Syria - Putin RIA Novosti 02 Jun 2012 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has denied that Russia has any special interests in Syria.
UN-Arab League envoy warns of growing sectarian warfare in Syria UN News Centre 02 Jun 2012 -- The Joint Special Envoy of the United Nations and the League of Arab States, Kofi Annan, today warned of the growing sectarian aspect of the crisis in Syria, adding that the conflict is already having serious consequences in the region and calling on the international community to work together to push for the implementation of the six-point peace plan.
Annan Warns of Looming War in Syria VOA 02 Jun 2012 -- Arab League leaders are trying to increase the pressure on Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, while their envoy to Syria warned 'the specter of all-out war' in Syria grows by the day.
UN Human Rights Council calls for special investigation into Houla massacre in Syria UN News Centre 01 Jun 2012 -- The United Nations Human Rights Council today called for 'a special inquiry' into the massacre in the Syrian village of Houla last weekend, which resulted in the killings of 108 people, including 49 children.
Fears Grow That Syrian Situation Can Only Get Worse VOA 01 Jun 2012 -- Outrage over reports of mass killings and continued shelling in Syria has led to plenty of tough talk about the worsening situation there. But hopes for any peaceful resolution seems increasingly distant.
UN Rights Forum Votes For Houla Probe RFE/RL 01 Jun 2012 -- The United Nations Human Rights Council has condemned Syria for last week's massacre in Houla and called for a UN inquiry to identify and prosecute the perpetrators.
Germany, Russia Back Political Solution For Syria RFE/RL 01 Jun 2012 -- Chancellor Angela Merkel says Germany and Russia are united in seeking a political solution to the escalating conflict in Syria.
Russian Arms For Syria Not For Use Against Civilians – Putin RIA Novosti 01 Jun 2012 -- Russia is not supplying arms to Syria which can be used against protesters, Russian President Vladmir Putin said on Friday.
UN rights chief urges international community to make efforts to end impunity in Syria UN News Centre 01 Jun 2012 -- The United Nations human rights chief today called on the international community to make all efforts to end impunity in Syria for all perpetrators of atrocities that have occurred there, and warned that without immediate investigations the situation would descend into a full-fledged conflict putting the whole region in grave danger.
UN Demands Independent Probe of Syrian Massacre VOA 01 Jun 2012 -- The U.N. human rights chief is calling for an independent investigation into last week's slaughter of dozens of civilians in the Syrian town of Houla, as activists on Friday reported the killing of at least 12 more civilians.
Clinton Says Russian Arms Sales to Syria Raise Concerns VOA 01 Jun 2012 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin says his country is not supplying arms to the Syrian government to use against opponents. U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton says Russian arms sales to Syria are of 'serious concern' and could lead to civil war.

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June 2012 - Syria Special Weapons News