Lavrov in conversation with Kerry calls for prompt disassociation of U.S.-oriented Syrian opposition from al-Nusra
MOSCOW. June 13 (Interfax) - The Syrian issue was the main issue addressed in the recent phone conversation between Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry.
"It addressed the situation in Syria, including the possibility of Russian-U.S. interaction in the fight against the terrorist organizations tat are active there. Sergei Lavrov again emphasized the need for a prompt disassociation of the U.S.-oriented Syrian anti-government forces from the group Jabhat al-Nusra, [which is] associated with al Qaeda (banned in Russia) and conducting offensives under the cover of 'moderate' opposition units. The unacceptability of provision of supplies to terrorists through the open Turkish border was also stated," the Russian Foreign Ministry said in a report posted on its website.
The conversation also addressed other international issues, including issues relating to the conflict in Ukraine and some issues relating to bilateral relations, the Russian Foreign Ministry said.
"Sergei Lavrov extended his sincere condolences to the U.S. Secretary of State over the bloody crime in Orlando, the U.S., in which dozens of people were killed," the Russian Foreign Ministry said in its report.
The report said the phone conversation was on the U.S. initiative.