MOSCOW, September 6 (RIA Novosti) – Russia’s Foreign Ministry warned Washington Friday against striking Syrian chemical weapons storage sites over fears it could cause an environmental and humanitarian catastrophe.
“We warn the US authorities and its allies against launching any strikes on the chemical sites and surrounding areas. Such actions would lead to a new dangerous development in the tragic Syrian crisis,” the ministry said in a statement posted on its website.
In addition to the potential impact on the civilian population and environment, Russia’s Foreign Ministry said strikes targeting Syrian chemical weapons stockpiles could make it easier for warring factions to gain access to them.
US President Barack Obama recently asked the US Congress to support a limited military intervention in Syria because of the regime’s alleged use of chemical weapons, which the US claims killed over a thousand civilians in one attack last month.
The Senate's Foreign Relations Committee approved a motion backing a military strike Wednesday, with a final vote expected next week after Congress reconvenes Monday.
Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel said Bashar Assad's chemical weapons stockpile, considered one of the world's largest, could be seized by his allies, including Lebanon's Hezbollah, the Associated Press reported.
