Russia blames unnamed powers of helping Al-Qaeda-linked militants in Syria

The Russian military is blaming unidentified foreign powers of supporting Al-Qaeda-linked militants in Syria. (AFP)

MOSCOW: The Russian military is blaming unidentified foreign powers of supporting Al-Qaeda-linked militants in Syria.
Russian Defense Ministry spokesman Maj. Gen. Igor Konashenkov said Wednesday “Al-Qaeda terrorists have become an obedient tool in the hands of one or several technologically advanced nations unhappy about Russia’s key role in Syria.”
While Konashenkov didn’t name any specific country, his statement appeared directed at the US, following Moscow’s earlier claims that the US protected Al-Qaeda militants in Syria. The US has denied the allegations.
Konashenkov’s statement followed Saturday’s downing of a Russian jet by Al-Qaeda militants who used a shoulder-fired missile. He said the Russian military is investigating where the missile had come from and warned such missiles could threaten civilian aircraft.
Konashenkov warned that militants could “stab their sponsors in the back.”