MOSCOW, December 18. /TASS/. The current escalation of the situation in Syria is the West's fault, and it is wrong to hold Russia responsible, Russian Ambassador to Moldova and co-chairman of the Hakimov Discussion Club, Oleg Ozerov, stated.

"Who deprived the country and its people of water? It was the American occupation forces that entered Syrian territory uninvited," Ozerov said during a meeting of the Hakimov Club.

According to Ozerov, "imperialist powers have historically divided Syria and Lebanon along sectarian lines, planting slow-burning bombs and landmines that eventually exploded." "Would the country be in such devastation and poverty? It wouldn't be," he emphasized.

The diplomat also stressed that "Russia entered Syria to fight terrorist groups at the invitation of the Syrian government." "We opposed the division of the Arab world and have consistently advocated for unity among Arabs," he added.

Ozerov highlighted Russia's support for the Arab League and its active participation in negotiations on Syria through the Astana format.

Prince Turki bin Faisal Al Saud of Saudi Arabia, co-chairman of the Hakim Club, also addressed the issue, pointing to the US presence in Kurdish regions of Syria. "Let's hope that Syria can rid itself of all external interference, allowing the Syrian people to move forward independently - yes, with the support of some external parties, but based on their own will and desire, not beholden to states intervening for their own benefit," he emphasized.

"Now it is crucial to ensure the legitimacy, statehood, and territorial integrity of Syria," the prince stated. "This will require not only the efforts of Russia and Saudi Arabia but also the involvement of the international community."

He added that if the UN adopts relevant resolutions on Syria, "they should prioritize preserving the country's integrity and opposing external interference from any side."

In late November, armed opposition groups launched a large-scale offensive against Syrian army positions in Aleppo and Idlib provinces. By the evening of December 7, they had captured Aleppo, Hama, Deraa, and Homs. On December 8, they entered Damascus. President Bashar Assad resigned and left the country. On December 10, Mohammed al-Bashir, who since January 2024 led the so-called Salvation Government in Idlib province, announced his appointment as interim prime minister. The transitional period will last until March 1, 2025.