Involving Islamic State, pushing chemical arms claims Russia pursues "Syrian scenario," Ukraine says

The Russian Federation intends to implement the "Syrian scenario" in Ukraine, as evidenced, in particular, by recent statements voiced by Russian officials regarding the involvement of 16,000 former Islamic State fighters in the war against the Ukrainian state.

This opinion was expressed by the adviser to the head of the Office of the President of Ukraine, Mykhailo Podoliak, Ukrinform reports.

"Russian officials, including minister Shoigu, announced the hasty recruitment of 16,000 ex-ISIS fighters to be used against Ukrainian civilians. Hiring ISIS and Russian propaganda claims about chemical weapons testify to an attempt to implement the ‘Syrian scenario’ in Ukraine," Podoliak said.

Read also: Russia set to send Middle East mercenaries to fight against Ukraine

As reported, on March 11, Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu said that allegedly "more than 16,000 people from the Middle East" are willing to help the so-called "DPR" and "LPR" fight against Ukraine.