The mother of American journalist Austin Tice, who disappeared in Syria 10 years ago, has called on Russian President Vladimir Putin asking for help finding her son. NCB reported this on Thursday, December 19.
She hopes Russia's close ties with the Syrian government will help find Austin, who may be in prison outside Damascus.
The call to Putin follows assurances from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu not to use air strikes in the area where Austin is believed to be located. Tice's family is willing to go anywhere to be reunited with their son.
– Of course, I rely on influential people to help us. Russia has always had a port in Latakia, so I think they probably know what's going on on the ground. We are still trying to find out where he is,” she told NCB.
State Duma Deputy Maxim Ivanov said the Russian Ministry of Defense admitted that there were problems in finding missing soldiers. According to him, the Ministry recognizes the difficulties involved in effectively searching for militants and the need to support their families.