Sources: Russia withdraws troops from northern Syria but keeps key bases

On December 14, Jinshi data, four Syrian officials said that Russia is withdrawing troops from the front lines in northern Syria and the checkpoint on Mount Araweet, but has not withdrawn from its two main bases in Syria after President Assad’s fall. Satellite images on Friday showed at least two Antonov-124 transport planes (one of the world’s largest civilian cargo planes) with their noses open at the Hmeimim bearish traders base, apparently preparing to load cargo. A Syrian security official stationed outside the facility said at least one cargo plane flew to Libya on Saturday. Syrian military and intelligence sources in contact with Russia said Moscow is withdrawing troops from the front lines, recalling some heavy equipment and senior Syrian officers. However, the sources said Russia will not withdraw from its two main bases and currently has no plans to do so. A senior Syrian officer with connections to the Russian military said that some senior Syrian military officials are transporting equipment back to Moscow, but the current focus is on restructuring and redeployment based on the ground situation.