US State Department urged Russia to prevent Syrian government from conducting an offensive on southwestern de-escalation zone, saying that it would give a decisive response to the possible offensive.
"The United States remains concerned by reports of impending Syrian government operations in southwest Syria within the boundaries of the de-escalation zone," it said. "We affirm again that the United States will take firm and appropriate measures in response to Syrian government violations in this area."
The Department said it held Russia accountable for any violations by Syrian authorities and demanded that it use its leverage to compel the government to peace.
"Russia is duly responsible as a permanent member of the UN Security Council to use its diplomatic and military influence over the Syrian government to stop attacks and compel the government to cease further military offensives," the statement continued.
Previous month, local media reported that Syrian government forces have been redeploying elite units of Syrian army from Damascus and other parts of Syria to the southern front. The offensive will reportedly aim to liberate the whole region of southern Syria, including territory near the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights.
