Russia appears to be in the process of loading and preparing aircraft to depart from its military bases in Syria, as indicated by satellite images collected. At the Khmeimim air base in Latakia, two AN-124 heavy military transport planes were observed on the airfield with their nose cones lifted, suggesting they were ready to be loaded with cargo. Additionally, a Ka-52 attack helicopter was seen being dismantled, likely in preparation for transport. Parts of an S-400 air defense unit, a Russian surface-to-air missile system, were also being packed up for transport.
Michael Kofman, a senior fellow at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, mentioned in a social media post that Russia seems to be consolidating its presence at both Khmeimim and Tartus, the naval base it has maintained on the Mediterranean coast since the Cold War. Kofman indicated that a withdrawal is underway, although it remains uncertain whether this will result in a complete exit, as there are rumors and indications to that effect.
Recent Maxar imagery revealed that the Tartus naval base has shown little change since photos taken on Tuesday, which depicted two frigate warships off the coast. The Kremlin emphasized on Wednesday that ensuring the security of Russia's military bases and diplomatic missions in Syria is a top priority, highlighting ongoing communication with the new leadership in Damascus. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov refrained from disclosing specifics regarding the number of Russian troops in Syria or the status of potential evacuations.
