WASHINGTON—Representative Eliot L. Engel, Ranking Member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, today made the following statement regarding the announcement of an agreement between the United States and Russia to reduce violence in Syria and jointly target violent extremists there:

"I welcome news of an understanding between the United States and Russia, though I remain wary of Russian intentions in Syria. The governments of Russia and Syria do not have a strong history of abiding by ceasefires or protecting civilians.

"The people of Syria deserve a better future: a future free from the fear of barrel bombs or Russian jets, and a future in which they can feed their children and live in dignity. If these negotiations are successful and can help the people of Syria reach that goal, all the better. However, if this understanding fails, it is time to move on to Plan B. My legislation, the Caesar Syria Civilian Protection Act, would give the Administration additional tools to compel Syria and its sponsors to stop the violence and begin the transition to Syria's future."

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