BEIJING, Nov. 24 (Xinhuanet) -- Relations between Syria and Turkey have plummeted after Turkey announced its plan to deploy Patriot missiles along the border between the two countries.

Syria has strongly condemned the act, but Turkey insists it is acting within its rights as a NATO member. NATO has defended Turkey’s decision, calling it a defensive precaution, while Russia has voiced its opposition.

The situation worsens along the border between Syria and Turkey. And this time it is because of Turkey’s request for NATO to deploy the Patriot missile defence system near the border with Syria.

Syria has condemned Turkey’s request, calling it provocative. In its earliest response, Syria said that it would hold Turkey’s prime minister responsible for increasing tensions.

But Turkey has put the blame on Syria for heightened tensions. Turkish Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoglu says Syria has attacked its own people with tanks and planes regardless of the rules of war.

Turkey insists that it is acting in line with its rights as a member nation of NATO, and there is no other specific aim for the deployment of the missiles.

NATO Secretary General Anders Fogh Rasmussen has said the deployment is made in a defensive capacity only.

Russia has voiced opposition to the plan and warned Ankara not to increase its military presence on the border.Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov cautions the deployment of the Patriot missiles will bring about extra risks to the region.

Sergey Lavrov, Russian Foreign Minister, said, "I understand that no side has the intention to drag NATO countries into the Syrian crisis. We have been told this many times. But in the military sphere, as said by one military expert and statesman, it is not intention but potential that is important, and when potential strengthens, risks grow."

Lavrov has also urged Turkey to establish direct connections with Syria in the event any accidents take place.

Turkey officially requested for NATO to deploy patriot missiles on Wednesday, out of fears of a spillover from the conflicts in neighboring Syria.

(Source: CNTV.cn)