DHAKA: A Saudi newspaper is reporting that Russian resident Vladmir Putin suggested to his Syrian counterpart and ally Bashar Assad that he give up the presidency and leave the country.

Israel Radio said Sunday, reports The Jerusalem Post.

According to the radio, the newspaper claims Putin’s offer came after the United States signalled it was serious about launching a military strike over the Syrian regime’s use of chemical weapons on its own population.

BDST: 2030 HRS, SEPT 01, 2013
RoR/Jck