Russian planes heading for Syria to evacuate nationals February 19, 2013 - 14:36 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - Two Russian Emergencies Ministry planes will deliver humanitarian aid to Syria on Tuesday and evacuate Russians and nationals of former Soviet republics from the war-stricken Middle East country, RIA Novosti reported citing an Emergencies Ministry official. “Il-62 and Il-76 airplanes have taken off for Latakia [eastern Syria],” the official said, adding the planes would return witn evacuees later in the day. The planes are carrying around 46 tons of humanitarian aid, including tents and power generators. Meanwhile, Russian naval vessels in the Mediterranean are also standing by to evacuate Russian nationals if necessary, with an additional four large landing ships also expected to arrive in the area soon, a military source told RIA Novosti. "The main task of the Russian naval forces will be participation in a possible evacuation of Russian citizens from Syria," the source said. There was no information available on how many Russian nationals were waiting to travel back to Moscow on Tuesday. The Russian embassy in Syria estimated there were some 30,000 Russians living in the country, but other reports suggest the figure could be much higher. Partner news  Top stories Nuland, a career foreign service officer who was until recently State's top spokesperson, was expected to be nominated the post. Alkhatib said Assad should respond within 20 days and that he should then be given a month to dissolve parliament. Bağış said Istanbul’s unique status as a “peaceful coexistence of all cultures and religions” makes it a vital player in the EU. The agent shot in self-defense in the incident, which occurred at Todashev's house, the law enforcement source said.   Partner news |  Latest news Platini stresses need to protect football, its values  "The quality of the football is exceptional – better than ever – and the results are following close behind," UEFA President said.ANC of New York screens “Orphans of the Genocide” “The ANC of New York is pleased to work with Mr. Maronian to spread awareness of this significant film,” Markarian said.China hopes for N. Korean envoy’s visit to ease mounting tension Ties have been hurt between the two supposed allies by the North's third nuclear test in February, despite China's disapproval.Russia, U.S. may set up working groups to counter crime threats “As well as our U.S. colleagues, we see a lot of areas of common interest in cooperation between the Interior Ministry and FBI,” Kolokoltsev said. |
