Russian military begins Syria withdrawal following Assad’s fall

Dec. 14, 2024

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) - Russia has begun a considerable military withdrawal from Syria, indicating a notable change in its Middle Eastern presence.

This resulted from the unanticipated fall of the Assad regime on Dec. 9, 2024.

Satellite imagery from Maxar Technologies shows noticeable withdrawal arrangements at Russia's Hmeimim air base in Latakia province.

Two Antonov An-124s, among the world's largest cargo aircraft, have been located with their cargo doors open; this could be a sign of pending equipment transport.

The pictures also reveal technicians disassembling a Ka-52 combat helicopter and preparing components of an S-400 air defense system for transfer.

Tartus naval base held immense strategic value to both Russia’s military presence in the country and to the ousted Assad regime. It was Russia’s only Mediterranean maintenance base.

As the naval base appears to continue normal operations with two warships positioned offshore, British Channel 4 News has documented a convoy of over 150 Russian military vehicles moving in what observers define as an arranged withdrawal, indicating a negotiated exit agreement.

The Kremlin has said that its primary focus is now securing its remaining military installations and diplomatic missions in Syria.

This potentially signals a probable end to Russia's direct military engagement in the region.

This withdrawal indicates a noteworthy turning point in Russia's decades-long relationship with Syria.

However, the Moscow-Damascus link dates back to 1944 when Moscow acknowledged Syrian independence during the Syria’s struggle against French colonial rule.

Russia's military involvement in 2015 was vital in maintaining Assad's government during the Syrian Civil War, which began as peaceful protests before escalating into armed conflict.