A Russian cargo plane departed from the Hmeimim air base in Syria’s Latakia province for Libya on Saturday, according to a Syrian security official. The departure comes amid rising tensions following the overthrow of President Bashar al-Assad by rebels last weekend. The official, who is stationed outside the air base, confirmed that further flights from the Russian-controlled base are expected in the coming days.
The departure of the cargo plane marks an escalation in Russian military activity in Syria, with increased movements observed at the Hmeimim air base. Alongside the departing plane, satellite images and on-the-ground reports indicated that an Ilyushin II-76 cargo plane and an Alligator helicopter landed at the base. Helicopters were also seen flying within the base’s airspace, and a SU-34 jet was spotted landing for refueling. Additionally, a Zeppelin hovered above the facility, and two trucks bearing Russian flags were seen traveling within the base.
On Friday, satellite images revealed ongoing military movements, with two Antonov AN-124 cargo planes visible at the base. This heightened activity is part of Russia’s continued military presence in Syria, where it has maintained key air and naval bases in Latakia and Tartous.
Russia has long been a crucial ally of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, providing military and diplomatic support throughout the Syrian Civil War. In the wake of Assad’s overthrow, Moscow granted the ousted leader asylum and assisted in his escape from Damascus as rebel forces closed in on the capital. Despite the loss of Assad’s control, Russia remains committed to its strategic interests in the region.
Moscow has made it clear that it intends to preserve its military foothold in Syria, with both the Hmeimim air base and the Tartous naval base remaining critical assets in its ongoing efforts to combat what it terms “international terrorism.” Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov stated on Thursday that discussions with the political committee of Syria’s Islamist rebel group, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, were “proceeding in a constructive fashion.”
As tensions continue to rise in Syria and Libya, the international community is closely monitoring Russia’s military movements in both regions. The departure of this cargo plane and the increased activity at Hmeimim air base suggest that Moscow’s involvement in the Middle East remains robust, with significant implications for the future of both Syria and Libya.
Sources By Agencies
