A Russian cargo plane has left the Hmeimim airbase in western Syria and is reported to have headed for Libya, as Moscow continues to wane its presence in the territory of its key regional ally.
Citing a Syrian official who monitors the base, the Reuters news agency has reported that several more transport planes are expected to leave the base in the coming days, as part of the evacuation, following the overthrow of the regime of Syrian leader Bashar al-Assad.
In several December 13 satellite images from the space technology company, Maxar, it was seen that Russia is preparing to withdraw military equipment from the Hmeimim base.
At least two Russian Antonov An-124 cargo planes are seen in the photo.
The Reuters source did not name the model of the plane that left the base on December 14.
Reuters reported that on the morning of December 14, an Il-76 cargo plane was seen at the base, while several helicopters were seen inside the perimeter of the base, which has been central to Russia's strategy of providing aid to Assad's forces and the rebels. its role in the Syrian civil war.
Russia's intervention in the war in 2015 helped Assad stay in power, but his regime was toppled last week, as the Hayar Tahrir al-Sham organization - designated a terrorist organization by the United States - and several other organizations, some also linked to Turkey, have overthrown the regime through a rapid offensive.
Russia has helped Assad to leave the country and the Russian president, Vladimir Putin himself, has guaranteed him asylum.
Russia also has military personnel at Al-Jufra Air Base in Libya.
A number of Western media are reporting that Russia is withdrawing its military forces and assets from Syria, following the ouster of Assad.
According to experts, this situation is a "slap in the face" for Russia.
Moscow has taken advantage of the fact that it has been the main backer of Assad, and thus has extended its influence in the Middle East and beyond, presenting itself as a counterweight to the West.
Now, the fall of Assad and Russia's withdrawal from Syria threatens Moscow's influence, not only in Damascus, but also in the region.
Earlier reports said that Russia is negotiating with the new authorities in Damascus to keep military bases in Syria.
In addition to Hmeimim, Russia also has a naval base in Tartus, Syria. /REL/ (A2 Televizion)
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