The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported that Russian forces stationed at the Khmeimim Air Base in Syria’s Latakia province evacuated several high-ranking Syrian military and security officers in December.
These individuals, loyal to Bashar al-Assad’s regime, were reportedly relocated to a Russian base in North Africa.
While the observatory did not specify the destination country, a Syrian source suggested to Hespress AR that Algeria or Libya are the most likely candidates, citing their strong ties with Moscow.
Russia has maintained robust relations with Algeria since the Soviet era, alongside significant economic interests in both Algeria and Libya. These nations are seen as strategic allies for the Kremlin in its efforts to expand influence across Africa, particularly as France’s role wanes in the region.
Algeria has been a steadfast supporter of Assad’s regime since the onset of the Syrian conflict. It opposed international sanctions against Assad, citing its alignment with Damascus. Algeria also played a key role in lobbying for Syria’s return to the Arab League, a stance criticized by several Syrian opposition groups.
This latest development underscores Moscow’s strategic maneuvers in leveraging its alliances in North Africa to fortify its presence and geopolitical influence in Africa amidst shifting global dynamics.
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