Syrian President Bashar Assad warned the current turmoil in the Middle East is exacerbating ethnic differences which could lead to the break up of some countries in the region. Speaking to RIA Novosti news agency at the end of his four day state visit to Russia Assad said: “The events in the Middle East could lead to the break-up of several countries in the region, the rise of extremism and religious and ethnic strife.” He added: “This could produce a domino effect that could spread to your region.” Full Story