Tensions in Syria are increasing because of military presence from the United States on a number of oil fields in the country, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov stated on Friday. He added the US doesn't have the right to be present at the oil fields as Syrian authorities, neither those from the government nor the opposition representatives, asked Washington to protect its natural resources.
Bogdanov stated: "Natural resources should belong to the people and this country and, naturally, should be controlled by the legitimate government considering that all other issues should be resolved through contacts that are happening between Syrians themselves in Astana, Geneva or any other place." The deputy minister went on to say that there is no proof of ISIS presence in the areas near the oil fields where US troops are present.
Earlier, the US claimed that it will keep a number of its troops in northern Syria in order to stop ISIS from getting access to oil fields in Syria. However, Russia has been blaming Washington for smuggling Syrian oil out of the country.
