US to ‘open lines of communication’ with Russia on Syria

WASHINGTON

The Pentagon said Tuesday that the U.S. would open "lines of communication" with Russia to de-conflict air operations in Syria.

"We expect the details of those conversations, including the exact timing of those conversations, will be worked out in the coming days," said spokesman Peter Cook.

"The purpose of these de-confliction discussions will be to ensure that ongoing coalition air operations are not interrupted by any future Russian military activity, to ensure the safety of coalition air crews and to avoid misjudgment and miscalculation," he added.

The announcement came a day after President Barack Obama met with Russian President Vladimir Putin at the UN.

The “frank” 95-minute talk by two of the world’s most powerful men was as a clash of opposing views about the Syrian conflict.

Obama called for Syrian President Bashar al-Assad to be replaced as part of a political solution to ending the crisis, but Putin told delegates that Assad should remain in power and be supported in the fight against Daesh.

Russia has supported the Assad regime since the crisis began in 2011, and recently deployed arms and troops in the war-torn country to conduct a campaign against Daesh, in cooperation with Iran, Iraq and Assad regime, according to Putin.

Differences aside, Washington is seeking Russia’s inclusion in a coalition of more than 60 nations committed to fighting the militants.