Obama, Putin discussed planned ceasefire in Syria
WASHINGTON - US President Barack Obama called Russian President Vladimir Putin at his request to discuss a cessation of hostilities in Syria, the White House said on Monday.
In a daily press briefing with reporters, White House spokesman Josh Earnest said though it will be difficult to implement, the move presents a "moment of opportunity" and the United States will try to capitalize on it.
Russian news agencies reported that Putin said the agreements were a real step towards halting the bloodshed and may become an example of action against terrorism.
The remarks came after an announcement earlier Monday that the United States and Russia have planned a cessation of hostilities in Syria, excluding Islamic State and Nusra Front militants, that would take effect on Saturday.
