Tri-Service

NATO Concerns Over Russian Involvement In Syria

NATO and the US have expressed concern at reports that Russia is increasing its military presence in Syria.

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said that the move, if confirmed, will not help to solve the conflict in the war-torn nation.

Historically, Russia has had close military ties to the Syrian government, led by President Bashar al-Assad.

Some commentators have argued that Mr Assad would have been defeated by now were it not for Moscow's backing.

US Secretary of State John Kerry has spoken to Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov over the phone, and "reiterated" his concerns at the reports.

Russia, however, says it has only sent weapons and military experts to the country.

Israel's defence minister, Moshe Yaalon, meanwhile, told reporters that Moscow sent military advisers and an active force to set up an airbase.

He says the base, near the Syrian city of Latakia, could be used to deploy fighter jets and helicopters in strikes against Islamic State militants. Mr Yaalon told reporters:

"As far as we understand, at this stage we are talking about a limited force that includes advisers, a security team and preparations for operating planes and combat helicopters."

He said Russia's first goal was to protect its interests in Syria, namely its navy base there.