Russia’s Putin ‘delays France talks’ on Syria conflict

Russia’s President Vladimir Putin has postponed a planned visit to France amid a row over Syria, French presidential sources announced Tuesday.

Mr Putin had been due to go to Paris on 19 October to discuss the crisis in Syria.

On Monday, French President Francois Hollande suggested Russia could face war crimes charges over its bombardment of Syria’s second city, Aleppo.

There has been no confirmation of the postponement from Russia.

Mr Hollande told French TV prosecution could take place in the International Criminal Court (ICC).

“These are people who today are the victims of war crimes. Those that commit these acts will have to face up to their responsibility, including in the ICC,” he said.

Moscow has repeatedly denied attacking civilians, and says it targets terrorist groups in Syria.

Neither Russia nor Syria is a member of the ICC.

Source: BBC