MOSCOW (AP) – President Vladimir Putin warned Thursday that Russia can again build up its forces in Syria “in a few hours” if necessary, and will continue striking extremist groups.
Putin, who ordered a partial withdrawal of Russian warplanes from Syria earlier this week, said that Russia has kept some forces in Syria to support the Syrian army’s action against the Islamic State, the Nusra Front and other extremist groups. He emphasized that the Russian military will be ready to use an array of air defense missile systems it has in Syria “against any targets that would threaten our servicemen.”
Putin’s statement underlined Russia’s intention to maintain a strong military presence in Syria to keep its gains after a 5 ½-month air campaign that has helped turn the tide of war and allowed Syrian President Bashar Assad’s forces to make significant advances.
Speaking during a Kremlin ceremony honoring Russian military officers who have taken part in the Syrian campaign, Putin said that the Syrian campaign has demonstrated Russia’s “leadership, will and responsibility” in “preventing the growth of a tumor of terrorism.”
Russian warplanes have conducted more than 9,000 combat missions since the air campaign began on Sept. 30, allowing the Syrian army “to gain strategic initiative,” Putin said.