Russia warns US of possible Syria attack in area with US troops: report
BY EMILY BIRNBAUM - 09/06/18 07:17 PM EDT
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Russia has warned the U.S. multiple times this week that its forces are prepared to attack an area of Syria that has dozens of U.S. troops, according to a CNN report.
Moscow reportedly claims the area, which includes a U.S.-led anti-ISIS coalition base, contains Al Qaeda or ISIS militants, according to the outlet. U.S. troops defend a 34-mile exclusion zone around At Tanf base.
The U.S. has discouraged Russia from challenging the American military presence.
"We have absolutely advised them to stay out of At Tanf," a U.S. official told CNN. "We are postured to respond."
"The United States does not seek to fight the government of Syria or any groups that may be providing it support," a defense official todl CNN. "However, if attacked, the United States will not hesitate to use necessary and proportionate force to defend US, coalition or partner forces."
The U.S. Treasury Department on Thursday announced new sanctions on allies of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad amid concerns over an imminent assault on Idlib province.
“Millions of innocent people in Idlib province are currently under the threat of imminent attack from the Assad regime, backed by Iran and Russia, under the pretense of targeting ISIS. At the same time, the Assad regime has a history of trading with the terror group,” Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said in a statement.
Russia this week conducted strikes in Idlib, the last major stronghold held by rebels loyal to Assad.