Russia agrees to UN-backed 48-hour humanitarian pause in Aleppo


Russia has agreed to support a UN proposal for a 48-hour humanitarian pause in the Syrian city of Aleppo, according to a statement released by its Ministry of Defense.

Staffan de Mistura, the special envoy for Syria, welcomed the news and confirmed that a humanitarian team was getting ready to respond to the challenge.

Russia and the US are co-chairs of the International Syria Support Group.

The UN, the Arab League, the European Union and 16 countries are also part of this working group.

The UN deputy spokesperson, Farhan Haq said:
"The United Nations counts on the Russian Federation to deliver their part, regarding, in particular, the adherence of the Syrian armed forces to the pause, once it comes into effect. The United Nations further counts on all those with access to or influence on the armed opposition, in particular the United States, as co-chair of the International Syria Support Group, as well as other relevant Support Group members, to ensure that the armed opposition also respects the 48-hour humanitarian pause."

Meanwhile, up to 36 people in need of medical treatment, including children, have been evacuated from the besieged towns of Fouah and Madaya.

De Mistura called it a "positive step," but warned there were areas that remained besieged by parties to the conflict, like Darayya, where food and medical aid were urgently needed.

SOURCE: UN Radio