Russia says G-8 summit declaration won’t say whether Assad must step down from power

ENNISKILLEN, Northern Ireland – A senior Russian diplomat says the G-8 summit’s joint statement on ending the Syrian civil war will not mention whether Bashar Assad must step down from power as part of any peace settlement.

Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov told reporters Tuesday that the eight nations have agreed they should not specify any outcome from peace talks that all agree should start soon in Geneva.

Ryabkov says the talks should aim to create a transitional coalition government for Syria, but should not predetermine whether Assad can participate in that government.

The formal Syria declaration is expected to be published later Tuesday.

Ryabkov dismissed Western claims that Assad’s forces used chemical weapons as unproven and said they require further investigation.

News from © The Associated Press, . All rights reserved.
This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Join the Conversation!

Want to share your thoughts, add context, or connect with others in your community?

Create a free account

The Associated Press

The Associated Press is an independent global news organization dedicated to factual reporting. Founded in 1846, AP today remains the most trusted source of fast, accurate, unbiased news in all formats and the essential provider of the technology and services vital to the news business. More than half the world’s population sees AP journalism every day.

Related Articles