Syrian War News Updates -- January 11, 2017

Al Jazeera: Syria's war: Astana peace talks 'set for January 23'

Russia reportedly confirms date for upcoming Syria negotiations in Kazakhstan's capital amid concerns over participants.

Russia has reportedly confirmed talks between the Syrian government and the opposition are due to take place in Kazakhstan capital, Ashtana, on January 23.

The negotiations, brokered by Russia and Turkey, intend to build on the current ceasefire, which has been in effect since late December.

The truce, which does not include the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL, also known as ISIS), or the former al-Qaeda affiliate Jabhat Fateh al-Sham, has brought calm to large parts of the country.

Yet, fighting has continued in some places, such as rebel-held areas on the outskirts of the capital Damascus.

Read more ....

Syrian War News Updates -- January 11, 2017

Syria peace talks in Astana set for January 23 -- AFP
Only Envoys From Armed Opposition Groups to Take Part in Astana Talks on Syria -- Sputnik
Syria Peace Talks in Astana Could Be Postponed for a Week -- Sputnik
Syrian Kurdish groups say not invited to peace talks -- Reuters
Syrian Kurds say not invited to Astana talks -- AFP
US: Syrian Kurds a force on the ground and must be in peace talks -- RUDAW
Opposition: Airstrikes in northern Syria kill 10 militants -- Washington Post/AP
Assad 'dropped 13,000 barrel bombs on Syria in 2016', watchdog claims -- The Independent
Syria governor says deal to restore Damascus water -- AFP
Syria rebels deny deal with government on water supply -- Al Jazeera
Russia sends more fighter jets to Syria despite announcing draw-down -- The Telegraph
Moscow slams US-led action in Syria as ineffective -- AFP
US-led coalition ‘acts secretively in Syria,’ Americans often absent from hotline – Russian military -- RT
Turkey's allies arming Kurdish militia, no room for it at Syria talks: deputy PM -- Reuters
Turkey Bogged Down in Syria as It Realigns With Russia -- AP