AKIPRESS.COM - Syrian opposition members say they are suspending participation in the preparations for peace talks planned by Russia and Turkey in Astana this month.

In a statement, the rebels cited "many and large violations" of the ceasefire by the Syrian government as the reason for their move, BBC reported.

Turkey and Russia brokered the ceasefire deal that has mostly held since last Thursday.

The peace talks are due to be held in Astana, Kazakhstan.

"The regime and its allies have continued firing and committed many and large violations," said the statement signed by a number of Syrian rebel groups on Monday.

"As these violations are continuing, the rebel factions announce... the freezing of all discussion linked to the Astana negotiations," they said.