Syria: US troops injured in collision with Russian vehicles in northeast Syria August 26

Event

On Wednesday, August 26, media sources reported that four US troops had been injured in a collision with Russian vehicles in northeast Syria this week. The injured soldiers had been diagnosed with mild concussion-like symptoms. Unconfirmed footage of the incident shows Russian vehicles intentionally ramming a US vehicle. The incident comes as tensions between US and Russian forces in Syria rise, with several incidents reported in recent months.

Further tension between US and Russian forces in northeastern Syria cannot be ruled out in the near term.

Context

To date, the Syrian conflict involves many parties, including the Syrian government, the Russian government, the Iranian government, the Turkish government, a US-led coalition, and numerous armed groups on the ground (including the Islamic State) with competing goals. 

Advice

Due to extremely poor security conditions, Western governments generally advise against all travel to Syria, with some banning travel to the country.

Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to any travel to Syria.