Russian intervention in Syria only meant to rescue Assad — Allen

AMMAN – The Russian intervention in Syria is to rescue the Assad regime from collapse and not to fight terrorists, US Special Envoy for the Global Coalition to Counter Daesh General John Allen has said.

In an exclusive interview with The Jordan Times and Al Rai dailies on Monday, the official called on Moscow to join the international community in its commitment to a political transition in Syria as soon as possible.

Allen, who met with His Majesty King Abdullah and top military and government officials during his visit to Amman this week, said that Russian intervention has created new operational realities on the ground in Syria that have required the US to reformulate its understanding of the new reality and how to adapt to it.

Allen emphasised His Majesty’s prominent role in the battle against Daesh through ideological means, affirming that the King’s approach is embraced by coalition leaders who often quote him on the matter.

The general also iterated his admiration of Jordan, saying: “Given what is happening in the region right now, it would be difficult to overstate how important Jordan is to the entire region. It is also difficult to overstate the individual leadership role of the King who has shown us friendship and wisdom in this regard.”

Asked whether a political solution is feasible considering Russia’s role, Allen said it is difficult to see a political solution to the Syrian conflict soon but it remains the final objective because military action cannot be the solution.

He also maintained that despite Russia’s calls, the coalition will not leave Syrian airspace and will continue to target Daesh.

In regard to safe zones, the US special envoy underlined the complexity of their establishment despite the coalition’s desires to do so. Safe zones within Syria would need to be capable of receiving refugees and would require stabilising the population and maintaining the area’s defences.

Allen also emphasised the coalition’s successes in the battle against Daesh, mentioning various territorial gains and the recapturing of Tikrit. He also said that the coalition will “turn the heat up” on the terrorist group’s headquarters in Raqqa.

He reaffirmed his country’s commitment to Jordan’s security and stability, pointing out that that between 2015 and 2017 the bilateral relationship between the two countries will generate $3 billion in military and economic support to Jordan. He also expressed his country’s continued support to the Kingdom in relation to the refugee issue.