The aim of Russian military operations and diplomatic efforts is the struggle against terrorism, and not the “mediation between different directions of Islam,” Russia’s President Vladimir Putin stated today.

“We appreciate our friends who believe in Shiism; we have kind relations with Sunni states, that’s why we don’t make distinction. Together with this, we understand the realias which we are working with. Over half of Cabinet members in Syria are Sunni,” he said.

At the same time, the President said that the Russian side will consider its task performed if its actions give rise to a discussion between the representatives of various religious directions, this resulting in uniting efforts in struggle against terrorism, Gazeta reports.