Overview
- Five Syrian sources told Reuters that Russia has started a gradual withdrawal from its Qamishli outpost.
- Military vehicles and heavy weapons have been transported to the Khmeimim airbase, with some personnel expected to redeploy there and others to return to Russia.
- A Reuters journalist observed Russian flags still flying and two Russian-marked aircraft on the runway, indicating the presence has not fully ended.
- The move comes after units loyal to President Ahmed al‑Sharaa retook territory from the Kurdish-led SDF this month and a fragile truce was extended for 15 days.
- Russia has issued no official comment as reports suggest Damascus could later request a full exit from Qamishli, while operations at Khmeimim and Tartus are expected to continue.