Observatory: Russian-backed regime controls Saraqeb

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported that heavy fighting continued on several axes in Idlib countryside, between mercenary gangs backed by Turkish artillery on the one hand, and regime forces on the other.

The fighting was accompanied by heavy rocket fire by Turkish forces, as well as heavy aerial bombardment by Russian warplanes.

According to the Syrian Observatory, regime forces, with Russian air support, have regained control of the city of Saraqeb, located on the Damascus-Aleppo international road.

This advance by the regime comes despite Turkish threats and its launch of a military operation called the Spring Shield.

Tensions between the regime and Turkey escalated yesterday following the downing of two regime warplanes, the last of which announced the closure of Syrian airspace over Idlib.

Erdogan is waiting to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin in the coming days in Moscow, to find an understanding on Idlib, but Russia said yesterday that the war on terror will continue, despite any statements and that it will not guarantee the security of Turkish aviation over Syria anymore.

M.M

ANHA