Communication is key, and one media outlet’s lack thereof created mass confusion on Jan. 23.
The Associated Press reported yesterday afternoon that the U.S. and Russia are working together to combat in Syria. However, AP’s tweet, “BREAKING: Russian Defense Ministry said its warplanes have flown first combat mission in Syria with U.S.-led coalition aircraft,” was dubbed inaccurate.
The Pentagon, quickly denied the statement, saying, “The Department of Defense is not coordinating airstrikes with the Russian Military in Syria.”
Eric Pahon, a spokesman for the department, continued that the Department of Defense maintains a communication channel with Russia, but for different reasons.
“[The communication] focuses solely on ensuring the safety of aircrews and de-confliction of coalition and Russian operations in Syria,” he said.
Russia, however, did reportedly conduct airstrikes. The Russian Defense Ministry said they released six Tu-22M3 long-range bombers from an airfield. The bombers flew over Iraq and Iran into Syria. They struck control centers, ammunition, and ISIS weapon storages in the province Deir ez-Zor.
While the U.S. did not lead airstrikes, there are, however, multiple reports indicating the U.S. banned Russia from bombing specific coordinates. Russian news agency RIA Novosti claimed that on Jan. 22, the U.S. banned coordinates of targets near the village Al-Bab. Despite the ban, Russian planes struck the area claiming there were militant fighters in the area ‘after further exploration.’
RIA’s account also quotes a Russian military official who discusses the channel of communication between the U.S. and Russia. The countries often use the line to ensure there are no aerial collisions.
Provided the information, the Pentagon continued denying its participation. However, the Trump Administration claims it is open to working with Russia in the future. Press Secretary Sean Spicer said President Trump would ‘work with any country that shares our interest in defeating ISIS.’ Spicer also said this statement does apply to Russia.