WASHINGTON: President Barack Obama voiced “deep concern” that key elements of a Syria ceasefire are not being upheld Friday, after huddling with top national security aides. “The President expressed deep concern that, despite decreased violence across the country, the Syrian regime continues to block the flow of critical humanitarian aid,” the White House said. Privately, they express concern that Russia may be stalling for time, but say ultimately talks are the only way the Syrian war will come to an end. The Russian government, which controls the media and actively stifles political opposition, faces virtually no domestic pressure over its actions in Syria. The UN Security Council on Friday canceled a planned meeting over disagreements between Russia and the United States over disclosing details of the ceasefire.

Source: Manila Times September 17, 2016 03:33 UTC