Russia's Lavrov says Syrian opposition "not encouraging"

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov renewed his criticism of opponents of Syrian leader Bashar al-Assad on Wednesday, dpa reported.

The opposition has been sending signals that are "not encouraging," Lavrov said at a meeting with Syrian Deputy Foreign Minister Faisal al-Mikdad.

The opposition were unable to agree on a constructive position, he said. Accordingly, the opposition were unable to agree on "negotiations without conditions."

"The situation calls for an immediate cessation of hostilities and the start of a political dialogue," Lavrov said.