NATO raps Russia over Syrian airstrikes saying bombs should target IS

NATO has called on Russia to stop its attacks on the Syrian opposition and civilians - and should focus its efforts on fighting Islamic State. The military organisation has also told Moscow to “cease and desist” carrying out what it called violations of Turkish-NATO airspace which it said was “irresponsible” and dangerous. It comes after Turkey accused a Russian warplane of flying into its airspace on Saturday, prompting Ankara to scramble two F-16 fighter jets to intercept it. The incursion drew a public rebuke from Turkey as well as Britain’s ambassador Richard Moore, who described Russia’s move as “reckless and worrying”.

These military actions constitute a further escalation and will only fuel more extremism and radicalisation.

Joint statement from US, UK, Turkey and others criticising Russia

The Turkish Foreign Ministry said the Russian plane entered its airspace south of the Hatay region, near its border with Syria. It summoned Moscow’s ambassador to lodge an official protest, and to warn Russia that it would be held responsible for “any undesired incident” if it happened again. Turkey’s Prime Minister Ahmet Davutoglu said his country’s rules of engagement were clear - regardless of which country enters its airspace - adding that Russia has since described the incursion as a “mistake”. The West views Russia’s involvement as trying to bolster support for Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, but Moscow insists it is trying to weaken Islamic State.

The aim of our operations lies in providing support to the Syrian military’s offensive in their struggle with terrorist and radical organisations and forces.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov

Turkey Politics