Russian defense ministry describes as "cynical" Pentagon chief's prediction of Russian military casualties in Syria
MOSCOW. Oct 8 (Interfax) - Russian Defense Ministry spokesman Maj. Gen. Igor Konashenkov has commented on the remarks by Pentagon chief Ashton Carter at NATO, where he predicted Russia's military losses in Syria.
"In their assessments of actions by the U.S. military in various operations around the world, Russian Defense Ministry representatives never stooped to public expectations of the death of U.S. soldiers, let alone of ordinary Americans," Konashenkov said.
Carter's statement today "unfortunately, characterizes very clearly the current level of political culture of certain U.S. government representatives. More accurately, the degree of their cynicism towards the rest of the world," the Russian defense official said.
"I am certain that no U.S. general would ever take such liberties," he said.
Speaking at a NATO press conference, Carter said that Russia's actions in Syria "will have consequences for Russia itself," and that he will not be surprised if terrorist attacks begin against Russia and that "in coming days, the Russians will begin to suffer from casualties."