Russia warns US of "dangerous" escalation over Syria
After a recent chemical attack near Damascus, US President Donald Trump threatened Russia to be prepared for missiles being fired at Syria. Responding to this warning, Moscow indicated that such an action could spark a US-Russia war. Moscow's UN ambassador Vassily Nebenzia asserted that the immediate priority is to avert a war. He also slammed Washington for putting international peace at risk.
Was there really any chemical attack in Syria?
There was a suspected chemical attack on the rebel-held town of Eastern Ghouta's Douma, which killed dozens including opposition activists, rescue workers and medics. The Violations Documentation Centre (VDC) which records alleged violations of international law in Syria said bodies were found with foam in the mouth, discolored and burnt skin. US Ambassador Nikki Haley claimed they had enough proof.
Why is US threatening military action?
Considering this, USe'>White House is assessing intelligence and talking to its allies on how to respond. Reportedly, US, UK and France are together prepping for the military strike. Further, to focus better on Syria, Trump cancelled his maiden trip to Latin America on Tuesday, suggesting that the US might be working on a full military operation and not a limited strike.
Now, what has Russia said?
Russia, meanwhile, described the reports of a chemical attack as a "provocation" to justify US intervention. President Vladimir Putin hoped that common sense would prevail and assured that "Russia would keep all its international obligations in full." Attacking Trump's whimsical approach, Deputy PM Dvorkovich said, "We cannot depend on the mood of someone on the other side of the ocean when he wakes up."
