US condemns shelling of Russian embassy in Damascus

Washington – The Obama administration has denounced the shelling of the Russian embassy Thursday in the Syrian capital of Damascus, calling for all perpetrators to be held accountable.

“The US co! ndemns the shelling today that hit the Russian Embassy compound in Dama! scus and expresses its concern for those killed and injured in the incident,” Xinhua quoted State Department spokesperson Jennifer Psaki as saying.

“We condemn any attack against individuals or facilities protected by international law,” Psaki added.

Three civilians were injured Thursday when three mortars struck the vicinity of the embassy, while another landed inside the embassy’s yard but caused no casualties, al-Mayadeen TV reported.

A statement released by the Russian foreign ministry said Russian citizens were not injured, but one Syrian died and nine injured, including Syrian security guards working for the embassy.

“The US continues to emphasise that those responsible for atrocities on all sides must be held accountable,” Psaki said.