Russia has halted naval activity at the strategic Syrian port of Tartus, marking a significant shift in Moscow’s military presence in the region since Bashar al-Assad’s government fell on Sunday. Satellite imagery captured by The New York Times shows that five Russian military vessels and a submarine had departed the port by Tuesday, following their appearance in images taken just days earlier.
The port, which has been Russia’s only Mediterranean base since 1971, has played a critical role in Moscow’s projection of power in the region. However, with no cargo ships entering or departing from Tartus since at least Monday, according to ship tracking data, it appears that Russian naval activity has ceased.
This development comes amid uncertainty over the future trajectory of Russia’s vessels. Two frigates were spotted loitering several miles offshore on Tuesday, leaving it unclear whether they will remain in this location or sail to another destination.
The lack of Russian naval presence at Tartus raises questions about the implications for regional stability and Moscow’s military interests. The port’s significance is underscored by its history as a key hub for Soviet and Russian naval operations in the Mediterranean.
As Syria transitions under new leadership, it remains unclear how the country will manage its energy needs, particularly in light of the abrupt departure of Iranian oil tankers carrying crucial supplies. The potential shortage of diesel and gasoline inventories poses a significant challenge to the newly formed government’s ability to sustain its refineries.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2024/12/11/world/middleeast/russia-syria-assad.html