**Syrian Rebels Close in on Damascus**
The regime of Syrian President Bashar Al Assad may collapse within days as rebels continue to advance towards the capital, Damascus. This is according to five US officials who spoke to CNN.
On December 7, Syrian rebels claimed to have reached the suburbs of Damascus, as their rapid offensive against government forces continues. Rebel groups say they have reached “the gates of Damascus.”
In recent days, rebel forces have quickly advanced and taken control of major cities like Aleppo and Hama. Officials warn that Assad’s regime is on the verge of collapse.
**Russia Loses Regional Influence**
If Assad’s regime falls, Russia will lose its regional foothold in the Middle East. This includes its naval base in the Mediterranean, which is a key strategic location for Russian influence.
Moscow deployed troops to Syria in 2015 and has supported Assad against anti-government forces. However, Russian actions in Syria have been criticized by the UN and other organizations, including intentional bombing of hospitals and “double-tap” attacks.
**Ukraine and US Leaders Meet**
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met with US President-elect Donald Trump on December 7 during a trilateral meeting in Paris. This comes as Ukraine continues to face Russian aggression.
The meeting was held ahead of the January inauguration of Trump, who has expressed support for Ukraine’s territorial integrity and sovereignty.
**Russia Faces Criticism**
Russia faces growing criticism from world leaders for its actions in Ukraine and Syria. The country’s naval forces have been accused of war crimes in Syria, including intentional bombing of hospitals and “double-tap” attacks.
In response to these accusations, Russian President Vladimir Putin has continued to support the Assad regime in Syria.
**Russian Advances Halted**
Recent advances by Russian forces in Ukraine have been met with resistance from Ukrainian military. The city of Zaporizhzhia was attacked on December 6, killing nine people and injuring 17.
This comes as Canada unveiled a renewed Arctic strategy aimed at bolstering regional security in response to growing threats from Russia.
**International Sanctions**
The European Union has failed to approve its 15th sanctions package against Russia. This includes an extension for Czechia to import Russian oil products through Slovakia.
As world leaders continue to condemn Russian actions, President Zelensky may meet with Trump on December 7 in Paris to discuss a joint strategy for Ukraine.
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