The Russian Embassy in Syria has issued a statement advising Russian citizens to depart the country as rebel forces continue to make gains against government forces. The embassy, located in Damascus, emphasized the challenging military and political situation in Syria as the primary reason for the advisory.
Russia has long been a staunch supporter of the Syrian government led by President Bashar al-Assad. In recent years, Moscow has provided significant military assistance to bolster the regime's defenses against rebel groups and other opposition forces.
To counter the rebel offensive, Russia has conducted airstrikes in strategic areas such as the northwest region of Idlib and the city of Aleppo. Despite these efforts, rebel forces have managed to capture key territories, including Aleppo, which fell under rebel control last week.
The embassy's call for Russian nationals to leave Syria underscores the escalating conflict and the potential risks faced by foreign citizens residing in the country. The advisory specifically recommends utilizing commercial flights for departure, indicating the urgency of the situation.
As the situation in Syria remains fluid and volatile, the safety and security of foreign nationals, including Russians, have become a growing concern. The embassy's proactive approach in urging citizens to leave reflects the gravity of the current crisis and the need for swift action to ensure the well-being of individuals caught in the crossfire.