Russia has requested Turkey’s assistance to ensure the safe withdrawal of its troops stranded in Syria following the overthrow of President Bashar al-Assad.
According to CNN Turk, the request involves transporting the troops to Turkish-controlled areas before airlifting them back to Russia. The channel also reported that Russia intends to maintain control of key installations, including the Tartus naval base and the Hmeimim Air Base near Latakia.
Russian military bloggers reported that several thousand personnel and equipment have been moved closer to the bases, awaiting evacuation orders. Some units remain cut off, encircled by rebel forces, and unable to leave without assistance.
Satellite images from Saturday show Russian transport planes, including an Ilyushin Il-76 and an Antonov An-124, at Hmeimim Air Base, likely preparing for evacuation.
Russian Air Force An-124 heavy cargo plane (reg RA-82040) left Khmeimim AB, Syria this morning, using the long route to Russia.#Syria #Russia #Damascus pic.twitter.com/qNtERc5bc0
— Conflict Radar (@Conflict_Radar) December 9, 2024
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov confirmed on Monday that securing the safety of Russia’s military bases is a priority. He added that discussions with Turkey are ongoing, as its influence over northern Syria and rebel forces is crucial to ensuring Russian troops’ safe exit.
Syrian opposition leaders reportedly offered guarantees to protect Russian bases and diplomatic missions, though the future of smaller Russian outposts remains unclear. The new Syrian authorities, represented by Prime Minister Mohammad Ghazi al-Jalali, said they would decide on the status of Russia’s military assets in the coming days.
The fall of Assad’s regime marks a significant setback for Russia, which has supported him militarily since 2015. The Institute for the Study of War called the situation a “strategic defeat” for Moscow, as it scrambles to preserve its influence while managing the withdrawal of its forces amid ongoing instability.
