“Russia shoulders a great responsibility, especially now during the Russian Foreign Minister’s visit to Syria. We expect Russia to convey a clear message to the Assad regime.
That means we expect Russia to spell out in no uncertain terms that the violence and repression must be stopped.
For our part, we will further increase the political pressure on Syria. That will entail a new round of sanctions and we also want to establish a contact group for the friends of a democratic Syria. We will help in a variety of ways to support those people in Syria currently suffering as a result of this violence.”