Russian Navy Reportedly Departs Syrian Positions as Assad Regime Continues to Face Setbacks

The Russian Navy has reportedly begun implementing precautionary measures in Syria amid mounting threats from the rapid advance of Syrian opposition forces.

This was stated by Naval News. 

According to the outlet, the auxiliary vessel Yelnya was observed departing the Russian Navy base in Tartus on the morning of December 2, 2024, with reports indicating that some or all of the other ships may have also left. 

Currently, the Russian Navy base in the seaside city of Tartus hosts 5 naval vessels and a submarine, including 2 Gorshkov-class frigates, 1 Grigorovich-class frigate, 2 auxiliary ships, and an Improved Kilo-class submarine.

This unexpected development comes as the Assad regime, a key ally of Russia, is now facing significant setbacks with Syrian opposition forces making significant progress toward the northern city of Hama following their swift capture of Aleppo in an offensive launched last week.

While unconfirmed, the agency states that this ship movement is believed to be directly tied to the evolving situation on the ground. If true, it would mark the first clear indication that Russia is relocating valuable assets out of Syria.

According to Ukrainian intelligence, Russian military personnel in Syria are experiencing significant demoralization following the recent successes of opposition forces. These include the capture of Aleppo, intense clashes in the Hama region, and ongoing advances toward Homs.