Activity at Russia's Hmeimim Air Base, a strategic hub that played a pivotal role in the Syrian civil war since 2015, has significantly declined amid the collapse of regime forces and shifting dynamics in the region. Following its establishment as a key operational base in late 2015, Hmeimim helped secure the Assad regime's survival by launching decisive airstrikes against opposition forces. However, recent satellite images reveal minimal activity at the base, raising questions about Moscow's future role in Syria. After November 27, the Syrian military suffered rapid disintegration, losing control of key cities. While Russian jets conducted limited airstrikes from Hmeimim, the scale of operations appeared drastically reduced compared to previous years. The diminishing activity has sparked speculation over Moscow's strategy amid the regime's collapse and faltering Iranian-backed militias. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov acknowledged the evolving situation, emphasizing the need for dialogue with the emerging leadership in Syria. Maria Zakharova, spokeswoman for Russia's Foreign Ministry, reiterated Moscow's priority of ensuring the safety of its personnel and facilities while calling for a comprehensive political resolution in Syria under UN guidelines. Russian President Vladimir Putin disclosed that Moscow facilitated the evacuation of 4,000 pro-Iranian fighters from Syria to Tehran via the Hmeimim Air Base, with some being relocated to Lebanon and Iraq. — Agencies
