Russian Ship Faces Fuel Tank Leaks Near Syrian Coast

Russia’s ongoing efforts to transfer military equipment and weaponry from Syria to Libya have encountered further complications. According to the Defense Intelligence of Ukraine (HUR), a Russian landing ship is experiencing technical malfunctions.

The amphibious assault ship Alexander Otrakovsky, stationed off the Syrian port of Tartus, has reported fuel leaks in its second and third tanks. Additionally, the ship is facing issues with its water desalination system.

Two other Russian vessels, the cargo ship Sparta and the amphibious assault ship Ivan Gren, are also anchored outside the port. Their entry into Tartus remains delayed as Russian forces have yet to secure authorization for docking. On January 9, Russian Rear Admiral Valery Varfolomeyev reportedly made another attempt to negotiate access but was unsuccessful.

As part of their evacuation strategy, Russian forces have been using aircraft to transport equipment from Syria to Libya. According to HUR, soldiers have received orders to destroy any non-operational vehicles requiring repairs, further complicating logistical operations.

Earlier, the Russian cargo ship Sparta, frequently used by the Russian Ministry of Defense for transporting military equipment, was unable to dock at Syria’s Tartus port for over five days, according to MarineTraffic data on January 10.