Putin's remarks indicate a potential shift in Russia's role in Syria following the recent upheaval, amidst declining influence and pressure to adapt its military strategy.
**Putin Aims to Downplay Russian Setback Amid Syria Turmoil**
**Putin Aims to Downplay Russian Setback Amid Syria Turmoil**
Russian President Vladimir Putin discusses military presence in Syria as rebel forces challenge Bashar al-Assad's regime.
In a recent news conference, President Vladimir V. Putin of Russia addressed the ongoing situation surrounding Syria's civil war. He stated that Russia is currently evaluating its military presence and bases in Syria, amidst significant changes in the control of the country. Attending a press event on December 19, 2024, he remarked, “I don’t know — we’ll need to think about it,” hinting at the uncertainty of whether Russia will maintain its strategic military bases in the region.
Following the unexpected collapse of its ally, Bashar al-Assad’s regime, Putin attempted to frame the events as manageable rather than a failure for Russia. He suggested that many Middle Eastern nations and Syrian factions still desire Russian involvement, signifying an adaptive strategy for the Kremlin. Analysts, however, express concern that Russia may weaken on the world stage if it loses access to its critical Tartus naval and Hmeimim air bases, essential for projecting military influence across Africa and the Mediterranean.
Since Russia intervened in the Syrian conflict in 2015, it has conducted numerous airstrikes that played a crucial role in sustaining al-Assad's dominance. However, the recent unexpected offensive by rebel forces prompted Russian leaders to reconsider their military strategy. According to Putin, Iranian and pro-Iranian forces previously aligned with al-Assad requested assistance in evacuating rather than engaging effectively in the fight against rebels, signaling a significant shift in the power dynamics of the region.
Following the unexpected collapse of its ally, Bashar al-Assad’s regime, Putin attempted to frame the events as manageable rather than a failure for Russia. He suggested that many Middle Eastern nations and Syrian factions still desire Russian involvement, signifying an adaptive strategy for the Kremlin. Analysts, however, express concern that Russia may weaken on the world stage if it loses access to its critical Tartus naval and Hmeimim air bases, essential for projecting military influence across Africa and the Mediterranean.
Since Russia intervened in the Syrian conflict in 2015, it has conducted numerous airstrikes that played a crucial role in sustaining al-Assad's dominance. However, the recent unexpected offensive by rebel forces prompted Russian leaders to reconsider their military strategy. According to Putin, Iranian and pro-Iranian forces previously aligned with al-Assad requested assistance in evacuating rather than engaging effectively in the fight against rebels, signaling a significant shift in the power dynamics of the region.
