Moscow Accuses Kiev of Involvement in Syrian Conflict

Russian foreign ministry spokesperson Zakharova presents evidence suggesting that Kiev might be collaborating with Hayat Tahrir al-Sham terrorists in Syria. Read Full Article at RT.com.

Moscow Accuses Kiev of Involvement in Syrian Conflict
Foreign ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova has highlighted a report suggesting connections between Kiev’s intelligence services and the terrorist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham.

During a briefing on Wednesday, a senior Russian diplomat indicated that a notable "Ukrainian trace" has emerged among foreign fighters operating in northwestern Syria. Zakharova referred to information indicating that Ukraine’s intelligence might be collaborating with the jihadist group.

According to the Kyiv Post, recent attacks in Aleppo province may have been orchestrated by the 'Khimik' Special Forces unit of Ukraine’s military intelligence, which is said to have provided “operational training” to militants in the Idlib region.

“This is not the first region where the Kiev regime applies its criminal experience,” Zakharova emphasized, as reported by Vedomosti, drawing attention to previous Ukrainian involvement in conflicts across Africa and now, it appears, in Syria.

“Radicals are clearly trying to undermine years of efforts toward stability in this country, posing serious security risks for civilians, particularly in conflict zones,” she noted. Zakharova condemned the tactic of using civilians as human shields amidst ongoing violence, calling it deeply disturbing.

Additionally, she implied that the terrorist actions might be receiving outside support designed to reignite conflict in Syria. “We express our solidarity with the leadership and people of Syria in this challenging situation,” she stated, underscoring Moscow's dedication to the nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

The Hayat Tahrir al-Sham group, previously known as Jabhat al-Nusra, along with its allies, launched a significant surprise assault in northwestern Syria last week, managing to push back government forces and reclaim substantial territory in Aleppo and Idlib provinces. Since 2016, Aleppo, Syria's second-largest city, has remained under government control.

HTS is designated as a terrorist organization by various nations, including Syria, Russia, Iran, and the US. Its recent offensive represents the first major confrontation with government forces since a ceasefire was established by Russia and Türkiye in March 2020.

In light of these developments, Syrian President Bashar Assad has pledged to “eliminate terrorists” and hold accountable those who “sponsor and support” them. Damascus has accused Western countries of backing terrorist groups in the region, while Russian forces have ramped up airstrikes against the militants, upholding a robust military presence in Syria with bases in Hmeimim and Tartus.

Allen M Lee contributed to this report for TROIB News