US Rerouting Aircraft to Avoid Russians in Syria 'Humiliating' - McCain

McCain claims that Pentagon reports of the United States altering their flights to avoid Russian aircraft in Syria are an embarrassment.

WASHINGTON (Sputnik) — Pentagon reports of the United States altering their flights to avoid Russian aircraft in Syria are an embarrassment, US Senator John McCain told reporters on Thursday.

"We can’t be dictated by the Russians as to where the United States of American can fly airplanes. That is disgraceful. That is humiliating," McCain stated.

On Wednesday, the Pentagon reported that the United States had taken steps to maintain a safe distance from Russian aircraft flying missions in the Syrian airspace.

McCain said that the United States should "just leave" the country "if all of your [US] actions are dictated by the risk of confrontation with Russia."

Since beginning its air operation against ISIL targets in Syria last week, Russia has carried out more than 110 precise airstrikes.

US and Russian military officials agreed to work together to deconflict the Syrian airspace in order to avoid any unintentional engagement between the two countries’ aircraft.