U.N.S.C. and Russia: Still Trying to Compromise

Some diplomats reported that progress was made at the United Nations Security Council (U.N.S.C.) meeting that reviewed a draft resolution to resolve the Syria crisis. The British envoy Mark Lyall Grant, though cognizant that there is still work that needs to be done, believes a vote could come in the next few days. Russian Ambassador Vitaly Churkin said, “I think we have a much better understanding of what we need to do to reach consensus.” However, Associated Press reported that Russia will not stop the sale of arms to Syria, saying, “”As of today there are no restrictions on our delivery of weapons. We must fulfill our obligations and this is what we are doing.” The biggest obstacles the U.N.S.C has encountered are stopping Russia’s arms sales and Russia’s opposition to calling on President Bashar al Assad to step down.

Meanwhile, in Syria, the city of Hama has been locked down after citizens poured red paint to symbolize blood in commemoration of the 30 year anniversary of the massacre that was carried out by Assad’s father. Over 10,000 people died in that massacre, and activists have accused the regime of trying to wash away the memory of the past, saying “they want to kill the memory and they do not want us to remember. But we will not accept it.” Firetrucks were seen hosing down streets and removing the paint that had been poured overnight.