US ‘on the verge’ of suspending talks with Russia over Syria, says Kerry
United States Secretary of State John Kerry says the US is “on the verge” of suspending diplomatic talks with Russia over Syria because of Moscow’s continued aerial bombardment of the city of Aleppo.
The top U.S. diplomat called it “irrational” to continue the talks and “take things seriously,” given Moscow’s continued bombing.
Kerry spoke during a Washington forum Thursday, hours after Moscow vowed to continue the airstrikes on Aleppo.
“It’s one of those moments where we’re going to have to pursue other alternatives for a period of time,” said Kerry, adding he is “extremely concerned” about unfolding events and the future of the Syrian people.
Washington has pressed Moscow to use its influence to pressure Bashar al-Assad to honor a cessation of hostilities agreement and allow the flow of humanitarian aid to Aleppo and around Syria.
