Medvedev Warns Against Discussing Possible Ground Operation in Syria

MUNICH (Sputnik) — Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev warned Saturday against discussing a possible ground operation in Syria, stating that this would be a wrong turn in negotiations.

"Despite all these agreements, people are starting to talk about carrying out a ground operation if something isn't done," Medvedev said at a meeting with Slovenian President Borut Pahor.

No evidence has so far been presented to prove the alleged bombing of civilian targets in Syria by Russia’s Aerospace Forces.

"No one has presented any evidence on the bombing of civilian population so far, even though we have been accused of it all the time," Medvedev said, speaking at the Munich Security Conference.

Russia has been launching airstrikes in Syria against targets of the Islamic State and Nusra Front jihadist groups, banned in Russia, at the request of President Bashar Assad since late September 2015. Moscow has continuously refuted the allegations of targeting so-called moderate opposition factions and civilians in Syria.

On Thursday, Russian Defense Ministry spokesman Maj. Gen. Igor Konashenkov said that Russian military had created a multilevel system of reconnaissance in Syria together with its partners to decrease possible risks to civilians.