Syria’s President says countries like the US, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Turkey are hindering peace in his country by supporting those he calls ‘terrorists’.

Bashar al-Assad accused Washington of being partially responsible for the deaths of innocent civilians by partnering with the rebels. The Syrian army have started large-scale drills simulating defense against outside attacks.

Some opposition leaders previously appealed to the West for foreign intervention against the regime.

But as Maria Finoshina reports from Syria, many in the country are fearing for their lives if the rebel forces get what they want.