The capture of Palmyra under the control of Syrian troops — the most powerful symbol of the liberation of the whole of Syria against terrorists, the head of the Federation Council Committee on international Affairs Konstantin Kosachev. His words leads Thursday, March 2, TASS.
According to the Senator, Palmyra became a “symbol of the tragedy of Syria, its history, its culture, its suffering people.” “It is no coincidence that the militants have made so much effort to keep the city under control and to continue the barbaric destruction of concentrated cultural values,” — said Kosachev.
He also expressed hope that the joint efforts of the international community will be able to restore the cultural treasures of the ancient city.
The head of the Federation Council Committee on defense Viktor Ozerov, in turn, noted that the capture of Palmyra will raise the morale of the Syrian army. “The next step is now the suburbs of Damascus held by terrorists”, — quotes the parliamentarian RIA Novosti.
Earlier on Thursday the press-Secretary of Russian President Dmitry Peskov said that the head of the defense Ministry Sergei Shoigu has reported to the President Vladimir Putin about taking control of Palmyra.
The ancient city, recognized world heritage site UNESCO, have been able to release of militants in the spring of 2016. However, in December, they surprise attack regained control over Palmyra.