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Audio reveals Kerry proposed using force in Syria

Reporter: Omar Khan 丨 CCTV.com

10-03-2016 09:29 BJT

US Secretary of State John Kerry has complained that his efforts in pushing for Syrian diplomacy have not been supported by the US government. A recording leaked on Friday shows Kerry backed the use of military force in Syria, but admitted failure in the argument.

The frustration, is obvious.

"Four people in the administration who have all argued for use of force and I lost the argument. I've argued use of force. I stood up - I'm the guy who stood up and announced that we're going to attack Assad because of the weapons," said John Kerry.

The 40-minute video was released by the New York Times.

At a meeting on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly on September 22nd, Kerry told a group of Syrians that his call for US action against the Assad government was not backed by US military force.

The approximately 20 participants included representatives of four Syrian groups that provide education, rescue and medical services in rebel-held areas.

The meeting took place days after a ceasefire Kerry had negotiated with Russia, collapsed in the Syrian city of Aleppo.

The Syrians also expressed frustration with the United States.

"So you think the only solution is for somebody to come in and get rid of Assad?"

"Who’s that going to be? Who’s going to do that?" said John Kerry.

"Three years ago, I would say: you. But right now, I don't know," said Syrian opposition activist Marcell Shehwaro .

The US Secretary of State defended the situation in Syria, as it becomes more and more complicated as many countries are involved.

He said any further efforts by the US to arm rebels OR join the fight, could backfire.

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