Russian Defense Chief says IS controls only less than 5% of Syrian territory

Manila, October 24: Russia has always been vocal about the situation in Syria and taking active participation to curb terrorism there. Since 2015 Russian force in collaboration with Syria’s military force is fighting against TS terrorists. After two years of long effort, Russia claims The Islamic State controls no more than 5% of Syria’s territory. Russian Defense Minister Sergey Shoigu made this comment in the fourth meeting of defense ministers of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations.

He also added 998 towns and settlements have been liberated. The main area of IS domination Dayr al-Zawr province was also hit by Russian military and allied forces. Targeting the oil tanks overpowered by IS, Russian force also could decrease the income of IS from oil sale.

Russian defense chief emphasized on the needed solution of humanitarian issues in Syria. He also called on the ASEAN countries and their dialogue partners to join the humanitarian and reconstruction mission in this country. "Today, Syria needs serious humanitarian assistance: nutrition products, necessities, medicines, reconstruction of critical infrastructure and de-mining of its territory," Shoigu said.