Washington, DC - Secretary Kerry spoke with United Nations Special Envoy for Syria Staffan de Mistura this morning to discuss today’s resumption in Geneva of UN-led Syria negotiations. Secretary Kerry reaffirmed strong U.S. support for the talks to focus on political transition in accordance with the 2012 Geneva Communique and UN Security Council resolution 2254. We look to the parties to respond seriously and in a constructive manner.

The Secretary expressed our serious concerns about fighting in several areas of Syria. The Secretary also relayed to Special Envoy de Mistura our continued concerns about regime efforts to hinder humanitarian access. We reiterate our call for the regime to fulfill its commitments under the Cessation of Hostilities and allow immediate, unimpeded, and sustained humanitarian access to all Syrians in need. And we look to all parties with influence on the regime, including Russia, to do everything possible to ensure that these commitments are immediately met.