Obama, Putin discuss Syria, Iran, olympics security

US President Barack Obama spoke via phone to Russian President Vladimir Putin on a number of issues namely the Syrian question and Iran's nuclear issue as well as preparations for Winter Olympics in shadow of serious terror concerns. The White House said, in a statement released late on Tuesday, that the two leaders "discussed the situation in Syria, including preparations for the Geneva II conference and the ongoing international program to remove and destroy Syria's chemical weapons." "They also discussed U.S.-Russian cooperation in the P5+1 process on Iran and the start this week of implementation of the Joint Plan of Action, which will halt progress on Iran's nuclear program." Among the most pressing "shared U.S.-Russian interests" are the upcoming Winter Olympics in Sochi, something to which the U.S. "has offered its full assistance" in light of fears that suicide bombings may plague the sporting event, particularly after recent threats by extremist Muslim rebels.Meanwhile the Pentagon announced that "U.S. commanders in the region are conducting prudent planning and preparations should that support be required." In a statement, Rear Admiral John F. Kirby of the U.S. Navy said that although "there is no such requirement at this time," nearby vessels will be ready should Moscow make a request for assistance."Air and naval assets, to include two Navy ships in the Black Sea, will be available if requested for all manner of contingencies in support of -- and in consultation with -- the Russian government," he stated. Obama and Putin shared their hopes for a "safe and secure" Olympics during their cal.