US aware of Russian, Syrian aid convoy to Manbij

The US is aware of a Syrian-Russian convoy that travelled to the northern city of Manbij, the Pentagon confirmed yesterday.

Spokesman Eric Pahon said Washington was informed by Russia of the vehicles’ transit, through an established channel the countries use to avoid accidental clashes.

The US is “very closely tracking that Russian movement”, he said, noting that the convoy, which predominantly carried aid, was accompanied by “heavy equipment” for force protection in the highly contested area.

“It’s a rapidly evolving situation and we’re keeping an eye on it,” said Pahon. “We don’t want to cause any further instability in an already complicated battle space.”

The US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) took control of Manbij from Daesh in August with the support of coalition air cover, and on-the-ground trainers and advisers.