Russia says has to react to aggression as terrorists entrench positions in Idlib

A gang of terrorists has taken advantage of the establishment of a de-escalation zone in Syria's Idlib province and entrenched their positions in the region, Russia cannot but respond to their aggression, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Oleg Syromolotov told Sputnik in an interview.

"A gang of terrorists has taken advantage of the fact that a de-escalation zone had been established in Idlib and entrenched their positions there, they have increased their ranks and begun raids against the civilian population of Syria, attacks on the Russian bases … We cannot but react to such aggression," Syromolotov said.

The diplomat noted that "it must be taken into account that there are also civilians and armed opposition groups, who were not involved in terrorist activities and could potentially join the settlement process in Syria in the Idlib de-escalation zone."

The deputy foreign minister also explained the details behind preparations for a possible operation in Syria's Idlib de-escalation zone.

"As regards the parameters of counter-terrorist operations in Idlib, such operations are generally planned carefully and secretly with the participation of all parties, neither the military nor diplomats talk about such things publicly," he said.