Syrian Civil War Update: Russia and Turkey Supports Ceasefire, Does Not Include Terror Groups

By Richard Chiu
Syria Civil War
An Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) fighter stands with his weapon on the rubble of a destroyed building, north of Raqqa city, Syria. REUTERS/Rodi Said

The Syrian government of President Bashar al- Assad implemented a ceasefire Thursday that could pave the way to end the six-year civil war, but one that does not cover the Islamic State and Al Qaeda terror groups.

This was the highlight of the ceasefire agreement that was agreed by Russia and Turkey, covers the cessation of hostilities with the rebel groups by halting airstrikes and bombings. Russia and Turkey have also agreed to exert efforts to start the peace negotiations between the rebel forces and the Syrian government.

Ahmad Ramadan of the Syrian National Coalition said that they will abide by the ceasefire, but points out that the rebels will retaliate in the event that government troops will violate the agreement or will launch an attack counter to the conditions of the truce.

Both Russia and Turkey are in the forefront of mediating peace talks and it would seem like the United States has been sidelined in the process. This may also be the reason behind the move since the current Obama administration maintains a different stand from that of president-elect Donald Trump regarding US involvement in the war.

Obama maintains that al - Assad steps down from the presidency to pay for crimes against the Syrian people. The US supported the rebel forces that were fighting against the regime.

In contrast, Trump has been critical of the handling of the Syrian Civil war by the Obama administration and the involvement of the US. Trump has been open in saying that he believes al-Assad, together with Russia, can be a strategic ally by the United States in the fight against the Islamic State and other terror groups.

Leading to the ceasefire, on the other hand, are the renewed relations between Russia and Turkey, which the latter began to reconsider after the retaking of Aleppo, where both countries played key roles for Syria to take full control from rebel forces. Negotiations were also successful in granting safe passage to evacuate civilians from the embattled zones.

Almost half a million people have been killed in the Syrian Civil War since it started six years back. There have been 4.8 million Syrians who fled the country and 6.3 million more displaced within Syria as a result of the war.

There are now around 13.5 million Syrians who are being provided with humanitarian assistance, while the United States has already accepted 10,000 refugees into the United States.

    Most Popular
  • Is 'The Last Supper' worth watching? Audience and critics weigh in

    Is 'The Last Supper' worth watching? Audience and critics weigh in

    Faith-based films often receive mixed reactions, and The Last Supper is no exception. The movie attempts to bring a fresh perspective to one of the most iconic moments in Christian history, but does it succeed? Some reviews from critics and audiences provide insight into its strengths and shortcomings.

  • ‘The Chosen’ Season 5: The darkest season yet—What to know before watching

    The wait is over—The Chosen is back with its fifth season, and this time, things are getting intense. The new episodes dive straight into the final days of Jesus’ life, covering some of the most emotional and dramatic moments in the Bible. If you’ve been following the series, you already know that The Chosen isn’t just about retelling familiar stories—it’s about bringing them to life in a way that feels real.

  • Massacres in Syria: Over 1,000 dead, including Christians and Alawites

    Syria’s coastal regions have been devastated by a series of massacres, with reports indicating that over 1,000 people—many from Christian and Alawite communities—have been killed in brutal attacks. Entire families have been wiped out, and survivors are fleeing in search of safety as sectarian violence escalates.

  • Kim Sae-ron and Wheesung: The tragic irony of Korean society and the principles of happiness

    Not long ago, the media was in an uproar over actress Kim Sae-ron’s passing. Just months before, the same people who had relentlessly criticized her for her DUI incident were now expressing sympathy, saying, "The world was too harsh on her." The irony is impossible to ignore.

  • Newsboys move forward as a quartet after Michael Tait’s departure

    After more than a decade as the lead singer of the Newsboys, Michael Tait has officially parted ways with the band, marking a significant shift in the Christian rock group’s lineup. The remaining members—Jeff Frankenstein, Jody Davis, Duncan Phillips, and Adam Agee—have assured fans that they will continue forward, embracing a new season of music and ministry.

Top Stories