Recent satellite imagery from Maxar indicates that Russia is in the process of removing military equipment from a base in Syria, following the recent ousting of President Bashar al-Assad by rebel forces. The images, captured on Friday, reveal at least two Antonov AN-124 cargo planes, among the largest in the world, with their nose cones raised at the Hmeimim air base located in the coastal Latakia province.
Maxar reported that “two An-124 heavy transport aircraft are present at the airfield, both with their nose cones elevated and ready for loading equipment or cargo.” Additionally, a Ka-52 attack helicopter is being disassembled, likely in preparation for transport, while components of an S-400 air defense system are also being readied for departure from the air base.
The situation at Russia’s naval base in Tartous, its sole Mediterranean repair and supply facility, has remained relatively stable, with two frigates still observed offshore, according to Maxar’s analysis from December 10.
Channel 4 news in Britain reported witnessing a convoy of over 150 Russian military vehicles traveling along a road, suggesting that the Russian military is executing a well-organized withdrawal, possibly indicating an agreement for a systematic exit from Syria. The Russian defense ministry has not yet responded to a request for comment from Reuters.
Historically, Moscow has supported Syria since the early Cold War era, officially recognizing its independence in 1944 as the country sought to end French colonial rule. The West has traditionally viewed Syria as a satellite state of the Soviet Union.
The Kremlin has stated that its primary objective since the fall of Assad has been to safeguard its military installations and diplomatic missions in Syria.
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