The Syrian government claims it has begun withdrawing troops from calm cities one week ahead of a deadline to implement an international cease-fire plan.

A government source said the withdrawal was in progress without providing details on when exactly it began. The claim could not immediately be verified and activists near the capital Damascus denied troops were leaving the area.

However, Russia has supported the Syrian government's claims that it has begun putting the UN peace plan into action. President Bashar al-Assad agreed just days ago to an April 10th deadline to implement international envoy Kofi Annan's peace plan. The truce requires Syrian government forces to withdraw from towns and cities and observe a cease-fire. Rebel fighters are required to follow suit by immediately ceasing hostilities. Western leaders have cautiously welcomed the April 10 deadline.

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