Simultaneously with a gathering of about 300 supporters of Assad in front of the Russian embassy in Damascus, the embassy was targeted by mortar fire on Tuesday, October 21. So far, there have been no reports of casualties from this attack. According to Reuters, the supporters of Assad had gathered in front of the embassy to express gratitude for Russia's attacks on opponents in Syria. An eyewitness told Reuters that both mortars landed in a park near the Russian embassy compound. Another eyewitness said that one of the mortars hit the embassy grounds but did not damage the building. Moscow announced that none of its embassy staff were harmed. The al-Nusra Front, a group affiliated with al-Qaeda, had reported on Monday that it would carry out 'retaliatory' attacks against Russia; however, no group has claimed responsibility for these attacks yet. Russia has been conducting airstrikes in Syria for about two weeks, targeting positions of the 'Islamic State' group and al-Qaeda-linked militants. In this context, clashes between the Syrian army and opponents have intensified alongside Russian airstrikes, and there has been a supply of weapons from the coalition to anti-'Islamic State' rebels in Syria. Implicit criticism from the Chinese ruling party's publication regarding Russia and the US's policies in Syria has emerged, indicating a shift in the battlefield for 'proxy wars' and the ongoing conflict against the people in the streets of Iran.
Russian Embassy in Damascus Targeted by Two Mortars
The Russian embassy in Damascus was hit by mortar fire during a gathering of Assad supporters. While no casualties have been reported, the incident follows threats from the al-Nusra Front against Russia. This attack highlights the ongoing tensions and violence in Syria amidst Russian military involvement.
👥 Key Players
📰 What Happened
The Russian embassy in Damascus was targeted by mortar fire during a gathering of Assad supporters. No casualties were reported, but the incident follows threats from the al-Nusra Front against Russia.
- Mortars landed near the Russian embassy during a pro-Assad rally.
- The al-Nusra Front had previously announced intentions to retaliate against Russia.
💡 Why It Matters
📚 Background
Syria has been embroiled in a civil war since 2011, with multiple factions, including the Assad regime, opposition groups, and extremist organizations, fighting for control. Russia's military intervention has significantly altered the balance of power.
🏷️ Entities Mentioned
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