Russian Military Withdraws Ships, Military Equipment From Syria, Ukrainian Intelligence Says

The ongoing shift in Syria’s political landscape has led to the withdrawal of Russian forces, as opposition groups gain control of key areas, including the capital, Damascus.

The Russian military has begun withdrawing its ships from the naval base in Tartus and transferring military equipment via air from the Hmeimim airbase.

According to the Ukrainian Defense Ministry’s Main Intelligence Directorate (HUR), this movement of forces reflects the ongoing collapse of Bashar al-Assad’s regime, with opposition forces making significant strides in several provinces, including Lattakia, Hama, and Tartus.

On December 8, 2024, two Russian naval vessels, the “Admiral Grigorovich” frigate from the Black Sea Fleet and the “Engineer Trubin” cargo ship from the Northern Fleet, left the Tartus naval base, marking the continuation of Russia’s military pullback.

In addition to naval units, Russian forces have been transporting weapons and military equipment from Syria, utilizing military aircraft stationed at Hmeimim.

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With the loss of control over Damascus and continued offensive operations by anti-Assad forces, Russian forces face the likelihood of losing their strategic military bases in both Tartus and Hmeimim. This would signify a significant blow to Russia’s presence in the region and a strategic defeat in Syria.

The fall of Damascus to opposition forces has prompted reports of President Bashar al-Assad’s flight from the capital. His plane disappeared from radar after a sudden descent near Tartus, with some speculating that it may have crashed. The fate of Assad remains uncertain, and no official confirmation has been provided regarding his location or condition.

The Syrian Prime Minister, Mohammad al-Djalali, has expressed readiness to transfer power to opposition forces and cooperate with any government chosen by the Syrian people. State-run media has already announced the fall of Assad’s regime, further signaling the changing political dynamics in Syria.