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Conflict in Syria

Russia plays pivotal role in Syria, supporting Assad’s army - Ayrault

"Russia is playing a major role in Syria. If not for Russia’s support, the Syrian army would have long suffered a defeat," French Foreign Minister said

PARIS, December 10. /TASS/. Russia has played a pivotal role in the Syria crisis, supporting President Bashar al-Assad’s government forces but the ‘total war’ logic has no future, French Foreign Minister Jean-Marc Ayrault said after Saturday’s talks of the Friends of Syria group.

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Russian diplomat says concept of Syria’s moderate opposition has failed

"Russia is playing a major role in Syria. If not for Russia’s support, the Syrian army would have long suffered a defeat," Ayrault said.

At the same time, the French foreign minister said that the West misunderstands Moscow’s future plans in Syria.

"What is Russia about to do? Is it willing to ensure security in the region alone? It is a huge responsibility. And in this case, it would be alone and would be unable to count on us, particularly in restoration (of the Arab country)," he said.

Besides, members of the Friends of Syria group are alarmed by the plight of Syrian refugees given the pro-government forces gain a victory, he added.

"Outside Syria’s borders there are millions of Syrians," he went on to say. "They cannot return to their country as conditions for their security do not exist. The strategy of a total war has no way out.".

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