A Russian cargo plane departed from the Hmeimim air base in Syria’s Latakia province on Saturday, bound for Libya, a Syrian security official confirmed. The flight follows the overthrow of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad by rebel forces last weekend.
The official added that further Russian flights from the coastal airbase are anticipated in the coming days, marking an uptick in activity as Moscow adjusts to the new regional dynamics.
Observers reported heightened movement at Hmeimim throughout the day, with additional aircraft, including an Ilyushin Il-76 cargo plane and an Alligator helicopter, landing at the base. Helicopters patrolled the area, a SU-34 jet refueled on-site, and a Zeppelin provided aerial surveillance. Trucks bearing Russian flags were also spotted moving within the base.
Satellite imagery from Friday revealed Russia relocating military equipment at Hmeimim, with two Antonov AN-124 cargo planes visible on the tarmac.
Russia, a staunch ally of Assad, granted him asylum last week after aiding his escape as rebels closed in on Damascus. Moscow has since emphasized its intent to maintain strategic assets in Syria, including the Hmeimim air base and a naval facility in Tartous, citing the ongoing fight against international terrorism.
Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov confirmed on Thursday that talks with Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, Syria’s Islamist rebel group, were “constructive,” signaling a shift in Russia’s approach to the evolving power dynamics in the region.
