NATO warns Russia over airspace violations as Syria airstrikes widen

The actions, quickly criticized by Washington, add an unpredictable element to a multilayered war.

The actions, quickly criticized by Washington, add an unpredictable element to a multilayered war.

By Liz Sly and Brian Murphy-October 5

BEIRUT — NATO warned Russia to stay away from Turkey on Monday after the Turkish Air Force intercepted Russian warplanes that strayed into its airspace from Syria, underscoring the heightened risk of a wider conflagration as Russia escalates its intervention in the Syrian conflict.

Here's what you need to know about Russia's airstrikes in Syria. The Russian military claims the strikes target the Islamic State, but U.S. officials say it's not helping. (Jason Aldag/The Washington Post)

Russia has said it will not send ground forces to Syria, but it is possible that Moscow will call on irregular volunteers such as those that have fought in Ukraine to supplement the wearied and depleted Syrian army in an offensive to reclaim territory.

NATO Warns Russia Over Airspace Violations as Syria Airstrikes Widen by Thavam Ratna