MOSCOW, December 11. /TASS/. Moscow is closely monitoring developments in Syria, with its primary focus on ensuring the security of Russians residing there and protecting its diplomatic and military facilities, Russian Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said.

"We are carefully observing the unfolding events in Syria. Our top priority remains the safety of all Russian citizens within Syrian territory and the protection of Russian facilities and missions, including diplomatic and military installations, as well as those connected to Russian companies and organizations," she said.

"We firmly maintain that adherence to international legal norms governing the status and operations of Russian facilities in Syria, including the Vienna Convention, is non-negotiable," the diplomat emphasized.

"Our embassy in Damascus continues to function, though its operations are conducted under heightened security risks," Zakharova added.

She noted that Syria is now entering "another transitional phase, during which the nation will inevitably encounter fresh challenges, as we are witnessing in real-time." "We extend our solidarity to the Syrian people, with whom Russia has long-standing and friendly ties," Zakharova stated.

"We genuinely wish for the Syrian people to overcome these emerging obstacles and hardships. Russia reiterates its unwavering commitment to the sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity of Syria," the diplomat stressed. "We advocate for the swift coordination of an inclusive political process led by Syrians themselves within the framework of national dialogue, in line with UN Security Council Resolution 2254," the spokeswoman concluded.