Russian fighter jets repeatedly harass, damage US drones conducting anti-ISIS missions in Syria
- Russian fighter jets have flown dangerously close to US drones in Syria multiple times this month, deploying flares and damaging the drones.
- The US military has condemned Russia's reckless behavior and called for an immediate end to these dangerous maneuvers that hinder anti-ISIS efforts.
- In multiple incidents, Russian jets deployed flares after harassing US MQ-9 Reaper drones, damaging their propellers.
- The damaged drones have been able to maintain flight and return to base despite Russian attempts to down them.
- Analysts say Russia's aggression may be an attempt to pressure the US to withdraw forces from Syria amid broader geopolitical tensions.