Defense Department spokesperson Peter Cook on Thursday repeatedly refused to answer “hypothetical” questions about the ground situation and Russia’s airstrikes in Syria, when a reporter tried a different tack.
“Some people at home would say the Russians are giving the middle finger to the United States; how do you respond?” asked Lucas Tomlinson, a Fox News reporter.
The reporters laughed, and Cook smiled.
“I want to emphasize something really important here,” Cook replied. “For Russia’s actions to be as constructive and positive as possible, it would be for them to join in the effort against [the Islamic State.] … The moderate Syrian opposition forces need to be part of the solution here. They will be part of the political transition ultimately. The sooner the Russians can be focused on those efforts to try and go after ISIL, the better.”
Cook continued to repeat throughout the press conference that military talks between the U.S. and Russia were “cordial and professional,” but refused to give many more details on the conversations. The Russians are currently targeting their airstrikes on the moderate Syrian opposition, which the U.S. supports.
