Maj. Gen. Oleg Egorov, deputy head of the Russian Center for the Reconciliation of Warring Parties in Syria, said at a briefing on Tuesday that Russian rescuers in Syria have so far saved the lives of 42 people and found the bodies of 57 others.

The military official further stated that nearly 200 people have received medical assistance. 

"In the course of rescue operations, with the involvement of military personnel of the Russian Armed Forces, 42 people were rescued from under the rubble, 57 bodies of those dead were removed, and medical assistance was provided to 194 residents," Egorov said. 

He added that four stations for collecting donated blood have been established in Aleppo, Hama, Jabla, and Stamu. 

Over 11 tonnes of food and essentials have been distributed to locals in eight different aid stations, Egorov noted. 

25th Division and Russians removing ruins in Aleppo pic.twitter.com/74Q0VJCxLC

— ZOKA (@200_zoka) February 7, 2023

Read more: Russia denies asking 'Israel' to help Syria - reports

Other countries that have defied western-imposed sanctions on Syria and sent humanitarian aid include Iran, Algeria, Iraq, and Tunisia, all of whom are either under sanctions or going through economic turmoil. 

Russia reportedly sent troops and doctors from its Hmeimim airbase in the country to assist with the earthquake's aftermath. 

Russian support and rescue teams arrived in Hmeimim to participate in relief operations. https://t.co/tIz4RTsq15

— Joe Kelly (@joekellyca) February 7, 2023

Iran has likewise defied western sanctions by loading air planes with relief supplies and a team of rescuers. Another team is reportedly underway. 

Read more: Exclusive: US sanctions preventing Syria from receiving aid - FM