US Finally Realizes Russia's 'Key Role' in Resolving Syrian Crisis

Washington has realized the key role that Moscow plays in settling the Syrian crisis, independent Syrian opposition member Namrud Suleiman said at a press conference at the international information agency Rossiya Segodnya.

MOSCOW (Sputnik) — Bilateral contact between Moscow and Washington on the issue has recently intensified due to the deteriorating situation in Syria.

“The Americans are now convinced that Russia plays a key role in resolving the crisis,” Suleiman said.

On Friday, US Special Envoy for Syria Michael Ratney visited Moscow for consultations with Russian officials on the ongoing conflict in Syria.

Syria has been in a state of civil war since 2011. The country’s government is fighting a number of rebel groups as well as radical militant organizations, including militants from Islamic State and the Nusra Front. Over 230,000 have died in the conflict, according to UN estimates.