WASHINGTON (Sputnik) — Russia’s use of an Iranian airbase to carry out operations in Syria is the result of flawed foreign policy conducted by President Barack Obama, US Senator Kelly Ayotte said in a statement on Wednesday.
"Russia's use of an Iranian air base to launch attacks within Syria is a significant and disturbing development that demonstrates the evolving relationship between Moscow and Tehran, as well as the determination of both countries to protect their shared interests in Syria," Ayotte stated.
On Tuesday, Russia’s Defense Ministry confirmed that it had deployed Tu-22M3 bombers and Su-34 strike fighters to Iran's Hamadan airbase, and the aircraft had already been used to carry out airstrikes against terrorist groups in Syria.
US State Department spokesperson Mark Toner said on Tuesday that Washington still intends to pursue a cooperative agreement with Moscow to coordinate efforts in Syria.
Senator Viktor Ozerov, a member of Russia’s Council Defense and Security Committee, said on Tuesday Hamadan airbase gives Moscow more options for striking militant groups in Syria while minimizing the risks to the Russian Aerospace Forces.
