The US-led coalition against the Islamic State (ISIL) is not coordinating its actions with Russia in Syria, but can adjust its operations amid intensified Russian campaign in Raqqa, US Defense Department spokesperson Michelle Baldanza told Sputnik on Tuesday.
The spokesperson said Russia informed the United States about planned operations to fire cruise missiles at the ISIL stronghold of Raqqa.
“The notification was intended to help prevent accidents and ensure safe separation during operations in Syria – but this in no way constitutes coordination with Russian forces,” Baldanza said.
The spokesperson added, however, that the coalition pilots were instructed to “be prepared to adjust [activities] as needed on a case by case basis.”
Michelle Baldanza also noted that the US-led coalition against the Islamic State (ISIL) has continued its operations in Syria during intensified Russian airstrikes on Raqqa, but warned pilots to be on heightened alert.
“Coalition pilots were told to maintain a heightened level of awareness, continue planned missions,” Baldanza said. "We were not surprised by the Russian activities."
(Sputnik)
17/11/15
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