PALMYRA (Sputnik) — Intense battles between Syrian troops and Daesh terrorists erupted on the city’s outskirts earlier this week. Extremists captured the historic city in May 2015, destroying many historic treasures, such as its ancient temples of Bel and Baalshamin.
"Syrian Army’s artillery and aviation forces did their best today. We consider the first phase of the operation to recapture Palmyra to be completed. Now the infantry will try to get close to the city boundaries," the source told RIA Novosti.
Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed hope that Palmyra would be returned to the Syrian people at Thursday’s ceremony awarding Russian servicemen for their role in the nearly 6-month anti-terrorist campaign.
