MOSCOW - Russia is ready to replace the Austrian peacekeepers who are about to leave the Golan Heights, President Vladimir Putin said Friday.

“Given the complicated situation in the Golan Heights, we’d be able to replace the Austrian units which is leaving the region,” Putin told a meeting with army commanders. Austria is one of three countries - along with India and the Philippines - that contribute military personnel to the 1,000-strong UN Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF).

Putin added that Russia could undertake such an operation only upon request from the UN and with the permission of the countries concerned.

The Golan Heights were occupied by Israel since 1973. The UNDOF has been monitoring the ceasefire between Syria and Israel since May 1974.

The UNDOF has faced a number of security risks and operational challenges in recent months amid the escalating conflicts in Syria, which have led to an Austrian decision to pull its 377 troops from the mission.  (Xinhua)