Russia assured Friday that the ceasefire in Syria was holding, despite some violations and considered that this should be seen as an achievement that saved the country from a broader civil war.

Russia assured Friday that the ceasefire in Syria was holding, despite some violations and considered that this should be seen as an achievement that saved the country from a broader civil war.

In a statement it issued, the Russian Foreign Ministry said that “despite the existing violations and provocations, the ceasefire is holding overall. This is a great achievement whose loss could lead to a dangerous retreat to a new wave of violence.”

It further added that Syria was currently facing a choice of either "moving toward a peaceful national dialogue or retreating to civil war."

"And every participant of the domestic conflict must make their choice," Russia further stated, pointing out that it intended to soon host members of the “Syrian National Council” in hopes of establishing dialogue.

In contrast, International Envoy Kofi Annan’s spokesman considered that the ceasefire in Syria was in a fragile state and the situation on the ground was not good.

Ahmad Fawzi said Friday that there were new victims of violence daily.

“The situation on the ground is not good. It's a very fragile ceasefire," AFP quoted Fawzi as saying before reporters.

He further pointed out that the advance team was currently made up of seven members, who have a freedom of movement on ground and that two more are arriving on Monday.

In parallel, Fawzi said he hoped the Security Council would give the green light for the full mission of 300 observers as quickly as possible.

"The next step is for the Security Council to adopt a resolution… We are preparing for the deployment because we feel it will happen,” he added.