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)

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.