Syrian President, Bashar al-Assad said de-escalation zones proposed by Russia is a chance for rebels to reconcile with Damascus and drive out militants.
In an interview with Belarusian TV Channel, he said, his primary aim is to protect civilians. He said rebels should help drive jihadist groups out of the de-escalation zones.
Russia’s proposal for zones took effect last week, covering areas in the west of the country.
However, Syria’s opposition rejected the Russian plan, calling it a threat to the country’s territorial integrity.