Assad regime violates UNSC and Russia ceasefire, shells Eastern Ghouta

Flouting the United Nations Security Council and Russia’s ceasefire, the Bashar al-Assad regime fired artillery shells into Syria's opposition-held Eastern Ghouta on Tuesday.

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said helicopters dropped two bombs on the town of Shifouniyeh and a warplane struck the town of Aftaris.

A five-hour truce from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. (0700 GMT to 1200 GMT) called by Russia began on Tuesday. Moscow said the aim of the truce was to allow civilians to escape the targeted area.

The Syrian regime has engaged in a fierce offensive targeting Eastern Ghouta with Moscow's help. Bombardment has killed hundreds since Feb. 18.