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Moscow expects Washington to specify its approaches toward establishing safe zones in Syria, said Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov.

"We understand that Donald Trump's administration is yet to specify its approach. The idea of safe zones was discussed in the beginning of the Syrian crisis. Then they wanted to repeat "the Libyan scenario," announcing the creation of a safe zone, where the anti-government forces were located. I do not see that Washington attempts to follow the same path now," Lavrov said at a press conference on February 1.

Earlier, Trump said in an interview with ABC News that he plans to create safe zones for civilians in Syria. Trump emphasized the option was preferable to letting millions of refugees into Europe or the United States, having previously characterized the EU approach of accepting millions of refugees a "disaster."

The Russian minister said Moscow was ready to discuss establishing safe zones in Syria with the new US administration.

"As soon as the State Department's leadership completely formed, I am convinced that we will enter into contact and establish a full-fledged regular dialogue,” Lavrov said.

The Trump administration’s idea of setting up safe zones for civilians in Syria was also greeted with caution by Turkey, which together with Russia has intensified efforts to end the six-year war in Syria.

Armed conflict continues in Syria since March 2011. Government troops are confronted by militants of different armed groups. Russia has begun airstrikes on terrorist facilities in Syria since 30 September 2015. The Russian military involvement follows an official request from President Bashar Assad to President Vladimir Putin.

A nationwide ceasefire began in Syria on December 30, 2016, to pave the way for new peace talks on Syria. Russia and Turkey serve as guarantors of the ceasefire deal, paving the way for negotiations between the Syrian regime and rebels.

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