Responding to reports that a flotilla of Russian warships destined for Syria is considering refuelling at Ceuta, a Spanish enclave in North Africa, Samah Hadid, Deputy Director of Campaigns at Amnesty’s Middle East and North Africa Office, said:

“Neither Spain nor any other country should refuel or provide any other logistical support to Russian warships en route to Syria, given the substantial risk that these ships will be used to commit or facilitate serious violations of international human rights and humanitarian law.

“Russia’s attacks across Syria, including the relentless bombardment of Aleppo, have resulted in countless civilian casualties and caused massive destruction in residential areas. We have documented evidence that Syrian government forces, with Russian support, have callously attacked residential homes, medical facilities, schools, markets and mosques as part of a deliberate military strategy to empty Aleppo of its inhabitants and seize control.



“This military convoy will only bolster Russia’s efforts, risking further war crimes and other serious violations of international law.”