Another Turkish observation point established; another Syrian helicopter shot down

IDLIB, Syria – Russian President Vladimir Putin discussed the current situation in Idlib Governorate with the permanent members of the Russian Security Council today.

Sputnik News Agency reported Russian presidential spokesperson Dmitry Peskov as stating, “A comprehensive exchange of opinions regarding the tense situation in Idlib took place, due to terrorist groups actions.”

Meanwhile, a Turkish convoy arrived last night to ​​Deir Sunbul area in Jabal al-Zawiya in Idlib Governorate at midnight, where they established a new military point.

Syrian state media reported on Friday that Turkish-backed Syrian militants had downed a second Syrian Arab Army (SAA) helicopter this week. The helicopter was shot down with a Man Portable Air Defense System (MANPADS) west of Aleppo, an area which has witnessed an escalation in combat and displacement in the past week.

Turkish state-run Anadolu Agency reported that the helicopter was shot down while flying over the front lines. The helicopter launched from Aleppo, which is controlled by the SAA.