Russia is reducing its military presence in northern Syria, especially in the Alawite Mountains, but it will keep its main bases, according to four Syrian officials who spoke to Reuters. The future of these bases—Hmeimim airbase in Latakia and Tartous naval facility—is uncertain after President Bashar al-Assad’s fall. Satellite images show large cargo planes at Hmeimim, suggesting they were preparing to load equipment. One plane flew out to Libya.
Sources indicate that Russia is pulling back troops from the front lines and removing some heavy equipment and high-ranking Syrian military personnel. However, Russia has no plans to leave its key bases. Equipment and senior officers are returning to Moscow, but for now, the goal is to reposition forces as necessary.
According to a senior official with the new Syrian administration, discussions about the Russian military’s role in Syria will happen in the future, and the Syrian people will have the final say. The Kremlin said it is talking to the new Syrian rulers about the bases.
Since the cold war, Russia has supported Syria, recognizing its independence and establishing ties against Western influence. The Tartous naval base is crucial for Russia, serving as its only Mediterranean resupply hub, while Hmeimim supports military operations around Africa.
Experts believe cargo planes are traveling from Syria to Libya. A convoy of Russian military vehicles was seen traveling between Hmeimim and Tartous. Reports show Russian soldiers still active at Hmeimim, with jets present in the hangars. Citizens like Ali Halloum from Latakia express a desire for no foreign intervention, whether from Russia, Iran, or others. Recent satellite images confirmed activity in Russia’s Mediterranean fleet near Tartous.
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