The German Defense Ministry and Ukrainian intelligence sources have claimed, based on intelligence reports, that Russia is preparing to fully withdraw its forces from military bases in Syria. The information indicates that Russia’s Mediterranean naval unit has already vacated its base in Tartus, located on the Syrian coast.
According to the report, the security guarantees provided by Syria’s new rulers appear to cover only the withdrawal of Russian forces and do not extend to their long-term presence in the region.
The Hemeimeem airbase, located south of Latakia, and the Tartus port base have historically served as logistical hubs for Russian military operations in Libya, Africa, and the surrounding region. Losing these bases would disrupt Russia’s air transport to Libya and the region, as longer flight routes would reduce cargo capacity.
It is noteworthy that Russia seems compelled to take this step following the collapse of the Assad regime, which previously significantly supported by Russia.
