(VOV world) - Russian Permanent Representative to the United Nations Vitaly Churkin said Monday that Russia will continue to help the Syrian army combat the Islamic State (IS) and Jabhat al-Nusra terrorist groups.

Russian Sukhoi Su 25s takes off from Hmeymim Airbase (Photo by: AFP)

Churkin said all parties should take advantage of the ceasefire in Syria and the UN-backed dialogue in Geneva between the government and opposition groups to attain a lasting political solution. He said Moscow appreciates groups who are supporting the ceasefire and humanitarian access.

Russia’s statement was made after the Syrian opposition asked UN Envoy Staffan de Mistura to halt the peace talks on Monday. The groups have accused Mistura of favoring President Bashar Assad.