Official diplomatic announcements and international relations analyses

Russia Withdraws from Syria, Aims to Retain Hmeimim and Tartus Bases

Dec 14, 2024, 08:23 AM

Russia has begun withdrawing its military forces from various locations in Syria following the collapse of Bashar al-Assad's regime. Satellite imagery and reports from Syrian officials indicate that Russian troops and heavy military equipment are being consolidated at the Hmeimim airbase in Latakia and the naval base in Tartus. Despite the withdrawal, Russia has expressed intentions to maintain its strategic presence in the region, negotiating with the new Syrian authorities to retain control over these key military installations. Some assets are reportedly being relocated to Libya as Russia seeks to secure its military interests in the Eastern Mediterranean amidst the changing political landscape in Syria.