US Military Presence in Syria Violates International Norms, Shoigu Says

Russian Defense Minister Sergey Shoigu, during a meeting with his Turkish counterpart Hulusi Akar, described the presence of US armed forces in Syria as a violation of international norms. The information was reported by the Russian Ministry of Defense.

Shoigu drew Akar's attention to the fact that American military personnel have been stationed in Syrian territory for an extended period of time. "In the bases occupied by the United States, particularly at Al-Tanf, the training of militants from terrorist groups is ongoing," the ministry stated.

The head of the Russian defense agency also emphasized the illegality of unilateral sanctions imposed by the US against the official government of Syria. According to him, these restrictions exacerbate the severe humanitarian situation in the country.

At the same time, American military forces are occupying and controlling regions of Syria where hydrocarbons are illegally extracted, effectively appropriating the country's natural resources.

Shoigu highlighted the necessity of maintaining a ceasefire in Syria during his conversation with Akar. The two countries' agencies constantly discuss this issue at various levels.