Russia to help restore UN patrols near Syria-Israel frontier

The Russian military said today that its forces in Syria will help U.N. peacekeepers fully restore patrols along the frontier with the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights, reflecting Moscow's deepening role in mediating between the decades-old foes.

The Russian deployment in the area has also highlighted Moscow's growing clout in the region, where it seeks to balance the sharply conflicting interests of Israel and Iran.

"The Russian flag is the guarantor of peace and security on that land," said Lt. Gen. Sergei Kuralenko, speaking to international reporters on a trip to the area organised by the Russian Defense Ministry.

He noted that Russian and Israeli officials have maintained regular communications, adding that "operations by Russian military police help ensure the security of Israel."
"We see our mission not only in clearing mines, but also in training local personnel. We are helping train Syrian military engineers so that they can do the job themselves."