The rising conflict in Syria has led Russia to advise its citizens to consider leaving the country as terrorists make significant advances towards Homs and Damascus, threatening the regime of President Bashar al-Assad.
In a warning issued on Dec. 6 by Russia’s embassy in Damascus, Russian citizens were urged to depart Syria due to the escalating situation caused by anti-Assad terrorist groups. The embassy highlighted the availability of commercial flights for Russians to leave the country.
Russia, a strong supporter of Assad’s government, has been conducting airstrikes against rebel forces, particularly the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham terrorist group, which has captured key cities like Aleppo and Hama. The Syrian military, along with Russian forces, have been targeting these terrorists in various regions.
Recent reports indicate that the terrorists are closing in on Homs, prompting mass exodus from the city. The loss of Homs would be a significant blow to Assad’s regime as it serves as a crucial link between Damascus and other regime strongholds. Rebel forces have expressed intentions to advance towards Damascus, intensifying the conflict.
According to the American Enterprise Institute’s Critical Threats project, Assad’s forces have not established a defensive line to halt the terrorists’ advance towards Homs. If successful, this offensive could isolate Damascus from the coast, impacting Assad’s stronghold and Russian military presence in the region.
The rapid progress of the terrorists has alarmed the international community, with calls for Syrian military officers to defect. While some Syrians support the insurgent groups, concerns remain about the nature of governance under these terrorists.
Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, a U.S.-designated terrorist organization, has attempted to portray itself as a moderate alternative to Assad’s rule. However, doubts persist about the group’s radical elements and intentions.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has indicated plans to discuss the Syrian situation with Turkish and Iranian counterparts in a meeting in Qatar. The evolving conflict in Syria continues to draw attention from global stakeholders.
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