The group of Russian navy warships performing exercises in the
Mediterranean has no plans to enter the Syrian port of Tartus, the
Russian Defense Ministry said on Friday, reports RIA Novosti.
Earlier, it was reported that three large amphibious ships from the
Russian Navy were planning to enter this port.
The statement stresses that, although the ships do not intend to enter
the port, if the trip takes longer than expected, the ships have full
right to replenish their supplies in Tartus, "which is intended for this
very purpose."
Earlier, representatives of the Syrian opposition National Council
(SNC) expressed concern about the group of Russian ships travelling
towards the Syrian coast. As stated in mid-July by a member of the
executive committee of the SNA, Burhan Latrine, these manoeuvres may
contribute to the continuation of violence by the government of Bashar
al-Assad against civilians.
