OREANDA-NEWS   The safety of Russian citizens is Russia's most important priority in Syria. This was stated by the official representative of the Russian Foreign Ministry, Maria Zakharova, on the air of Sputnik Radio.

"Right now, our most important priority is the safety of our citizens: these are specialists, military personnel, diplomats, and journalists. Everything necessary is being done to ensure their safety. Russia is in contact with representatives of various forces on the ground," the diplomat said.

According to her, Moscow wants to say a lot about this situation, but neither statements nor assessments should kindle a fire and not become a stimulating means to inflame passions.

Earlier, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov said that former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad is safe in Russia, Moscow acted as it should in such extraordinary situations. He noted that in such a situation it would be wrong for him to talk about what happened and how it was resolved.