Putin's statement came at the end of a summit with European leaders in Brussels.

 

　　"I would like to emphasise one more time that we will try to pursue public order in Syria and we will be looking forward to a democratic regime in Syria. We definitely wouldn't like any chaos to occur in Syria. No one is interested in this. Everyone is interested in stopping the bloodshed and violence."

 

　　Some observers say the comments appear to be part of Russia's recent efforts to distance itself from the embattled Syrian government.

 

　　But still Putin made no clear indication that Moscow may change its stance and stop blocking international sanctions against Syria.

 

　　The Russian President said that a lasting peace in Syria can only be reached through a peace agreement that would ensure the protection of various religious and ethnic groups in Syria.