US takes aim at Russia over alleged Syria chemical attack

The US has strongly condemned an alleged chemical weapons attack in Syria's Eastern Ghouta, saying Russia bore some responsibility due to its "unwavering support" for the regime.

Douma, the last opposition holdout in Eastern Ghouta, was pounded by renewed airstrikes that killed 70 civilians in around 24 hours -- while 11 people also suffered breathing problems.

First responders have accused forces loyal to President Bashar al-Assad of using poisonous chlorine gas.

"The Assad regime and its backers must be held accountable and any further attacks prevented immediately," US State Department spokeswoman Heather Nauert said in a statement.

"Russia, with its unwavering support for the regime, ultimately bears responsibility for these brutal attacks."