What's happened
Russian forces are reportedly beginning a gradual withdrawal from Qamishli airport in northeastern Syria, transferring some troops and equipment to Hmeimim airbase and returning others to Russia. The move follows Syrian government advances and a potential request for Russia to leave the base once the region is fully under Damascus control. The withdrawal signals shifting Russian involvement amid regional tensions.
What's behind the headline?
Russia's troop movements in northeastern Syria reflect a strategic recalibration. The reported redeployment from Qamishli to Hmeimim indicates Moscow's response to the Syrian government's territorial gains and the shifting regional landscape. The Syrian military's recent recapture of northern and eastern territories, coupled with the extension of a ceasefire, suggests Damascus is consolidating control and may soon request Russian forces to withdraw from the northeastern border region. This move could diminish Russia's regional influence, especially as it faces mounting pressure from Turkey and local Kurdish forces. The redeployment also signals Moscow's prioritization of its main bases in Latakia and Tartus, consolidating its strategic assets while reducing its footprint in less critical areas. The potential withdrawal raises questions about Russia's long-term role in Syria and its ability to mediate between conflicting parties amid escalating tensions.
What the papers say
The Moscow Times reports that Russian military equipment and heavy weapons have been transferred from Qamishli to Hmeimim, with some troops expected to return to Russia. The article notes that this move follows Syrian government advances and a possible request for Russia to vacate the base once Hasakah province is fully under Damascus control. The New Arab corroborates this, citing sources that describe the redeployment as a calculated move rather than an outright withdrawal, emphasizing the uncertain future of Russia's presence in northeastern Syria. Both sources highlight the regional context: Syrian forces have recaptured significant territory from Kurdish-led forces, and the ceasefire extension indicates ongoing negotiations. The reports also mention that Russia's main bases in Syria remain in Latakia and Tartus, with Qamishli's future uncertain as Damascus seeks to reassert authority over the region. The differing perspectives underscore the complexity of Russia's strategic interests and regional influence.
How we got here
Russia has maintained a military presence in Syria since 2015, primarily through the Hmeimim airbase and the Tartus naval facility. Since the fall of Bashar al-Assad's government in late 2024, Moscow has scaled back its footprint, consolidating forces at key strategic sites. Russian forces at Qamishli airport, a key foothold in northeastern Syria, have been active since 2019, supporting Syrian government efforts and monitoring Kurdish-led forces. Recent Syrian advances and pressure from Damascus have prompted speculation about Russia's future role in the region, especially as the Syrian government seeks to reassert control over Kurdish-held areas.
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