10 Sep 2013 14:47

Pushkov rules out Russian armed engagement in Syrian crisis

MOSCOW. Sept 10 (Interfax) - Russia is not planning for armed engagement in the Syrian crisis in the case of a strike against Syria, State Duma International Affairs Committee Chairman Alexei Pushkov told reporters on Tuesday.

"Armed engagement is out of the question, but Russian leaders, starting from President Vladimir Putin, have repeatedly promised active political, diplomatic and military assistance," he said.

Russia does not intend to take part in the hostilities, Pushkov said. "But the Russian Federation has said it will be assisting Syria, as it has been doing until now, in every possible way - political, diplomatic or other. Especially, assistance will be provided if it [Syria] encounters aggression," the parliamentarian said.