Kremlin Sticks to Syria Peace Process Amid Reports of Washington's 'Plan B'

Russia is committed to an inclusive peace process in Syria and its obligations to help the elected Syrian authorities fight terrorism, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Wednesday.

MOSCOW (Sputnik) — His remark on Russia’s stance regarding Syria came after reports in the WSJ that Washington had drawn up a 'Plan B' for Syria should the ongoing truce collapse.

The Wall Street Journal cited US officials as saying on Tuesday that Washington planned to supply what it deems "moderate" Syrian rebels with even more powerful weapons able to shoot down the government's combat aircraft.

"Russia has only one consistent plan which is to assist the peaceful solution of the Syrian problem in every possible way and systematically help the legitimate Syrian authorities fight terrorism. The settlement process must be inclusive, meaning all sects and national minorities must be involved. This is Russia’s plan," Peskov said.

The so-called Plan A cessation of hostilities between Syrian government forces and rebel groups, with the exception of terrorist networks operating in the country, took effect on February 27 and has been described as largely holding despite violations.

The day after Russia and the United States negotiated the ceasefire, on February 23, White House spokesperson Josh Earnest said the United States was "not ruling out a plan B" in case the truce did not hold. Russia questioned US commitment to the cessation of hostilities with its contingency plan.