Russia withdraws military from Syria, weakening Mediterranean influence

Members of the Russian military gather by their vehicles near a mast flying the Russian national flags by the cranes at the port of Tartus in western Syria on December 16, 2024. -(AFP Photo)

Russia has initiated a significant withdrawal of troops and military equipment from Syria, following the removal of dictator Bashar al-Assad. The pullback primarily affects the Tartus naval base and Hmeimim Air Base, key components of Russia's military presence, according to U.S. officials and intelligence sources cited by CNN.

Why it matters

The potential loss of these bases would weaken Russia’s strategic position in the region, especially as it shifts focus from Syria to Libya.

This handout satellite image released by Maxar Technologies on December 13, 2024 shows an Antonov An-124 heavy transport aircraft preparing to load equipment at the Russian Hmeimim Air Base in Syria's western province of Latakia. - Islamist-led rebels took the Syrian capital Damascus in a lightning offensive on December 8, ousting president Bashar al-Assad and ending five decades of Baath rule in the country. Assad was propped up by Russia, where he reportedly fled, as well as Iran and Lebanon's Hezbollah militant group. (Photo by Satellite image ©2024 Maxar Technologies / AFP) / RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE - MANDATORY CREDIT "AFP PHOTO / SATELLITE IMAGE ©2024 MAXAR TECHNOLOGIES" - NO MARKETING NO ADVERTISING CAMPAIGNS - DISTRIBUTED AS A SERVICE TO CLIENTSThis handout satellite image released by Maxar Technologies on December 13, 2024 shows an overview of the northern section the Russian Hmeimim Air Base in Syria's western province of Latakia. (Photo by Satellite image ©2024 Maxar Technologies / AFP)

Details of Russia's withdrawal

Russian forces have begun withdrawing from Syria, with naval and air assets reportedly moving to Libya.
Satellite images from Dec. 13 showed Russian aircraft being loaded for departure from Hmeimim, including heavy transport planes and military equipment.

Big picture

This shift in Russia’s military strategy could have long-term implications for its presence in the Mediterranean and broader geopolitical influence.

What they’re saying

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov confirmed Russia is in contact with groups controlling key areas in Syria.
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken declined to comment on Russia’s withdrawal.