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Russia Condemns Talk of Arming Syria Rebels

Free Syrian Army fighters prepare mortar shells prior to an offensive against forces loyal to Syria's President Bashar al-Assad, in Houla near Homs, March 13, 2013. (Shaam News Network)

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VOA News

March 13, 2013

Russia's foreign minister has condemned talk of arming the Syrian opposition, saying it is illegal under international law.

Russia's Sergei Lavrov spoke Wednesday in London following a meeting with British Foreign Secretary William Hague.

Britain and some other countries have talked of lifting a European Union arms embargo to allow weapons to be sent to opposition forces.

Late last month, the United States announced $60 million in extra aid to the Syrian opposition and, for the first time, non-lethal aid to rebel forces.

In the past, Russia has sold weapons to the government of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad.

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by: Anonymous

March 13, 2013 8:26 PM

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Suck it up Buttercup (Putin).

These people in the Nation of Syria have been exposed to Genocide by Bashar al Assad, terrorizing the nation.

It isn't always easy doing what is right Putin, but you have to.
The people of Syria deserve a decent government, they do not want Bashar al Assad. Bashar al Assad is trying to militarily force himself as the leader, but he does not have the mind, heart and souls of the nation backing him. This itself is a form of terrorism and must be stopped. The people of Syria are what makes Syria Syria, they are the ones to decide.

For Russia to be upset that the people of Syria are actually wanting to hang Bashar al Assad is just crazy. He has killed enough civilians, as if they were nothing. But by Russia saying this, this will make the Syrian people to never want the Russian government to step foot on the Syrian soil again, once this is over.