German Chancellor Angela Merkel has stated that the civil war in Syria must be resolved with political means, opposing suggestions for international military intervention.
In a statement Sunday, Germany's government has supported Russia's position for a political and diplomatic solution, implicitly opposing a steeped up rhetoric by the US and Britain.
Western countries have sought a more active position after reports of a use of chemical weapons this week, allegedly by forces of Syrian President Bashar Al-Assad.
US Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel has unprecedentedly stated his country is looking at all available options for response, including military intervention.