Russia's Strategic Shift: Military Withdrawal and Base Negotiations in Syria
Russia appears to be withdrawing some of its military forces from Syria following the sudden fall of Bashar al-Assad's regime, as indicated by satellite imagery and Ukrainian intelligence. The images show increased activity at the Hmeimim air base, including the arrival of transport aircraft and the disassembly of air-defense systems, suggesting a potential drawdown. While the extent of the withdrawal is unclear, it could signal a complete exit. Russia's future presence in Syria will depend on negotiations with the new government in Damascus.