May 03, 2016•Update: May 04, 2016
By Levent Tok and Selen Temizer
ALEPPO, Syria
The deputy commander of the Ahrar al-Sham Syrian opposition group has warned Russia and Iran against beefing up their support for the Assad regime.
In a special interview with Anadolu Agency, Abu Ammar said his group, which was established in 2012, has blocked the aims of Moscow in Syria, which were to regain all areas under the control of the opposition.
Abu Ammar also rejected any Russian role in finding a peaceful end to the years-long conflict.
“How can Russia sponsor a political solution when it is the one killing on the ground,” he said. “How can we believe Moscow’s intentions to reach a political settlement in Syria when it continues to assault Syria with bombs.”
Abu Ammar said the cessation of hostilities agreement has failed because of the Assad regime’s military escalation.
The agreement was signed in February between the U.S. and Russia, the co-chairs of the International Syria Support Group (ISSG).
More than 600 civilians have been killed in Syria since the deal took effect, according to data compiled by Anadolu Agency.
