**Russia Shuffles Military Leadership in Syria**
Russia has changed its military leadership in Syria, amid a strategic Syrian opposition offensive. According to the Ukrainian Defense Ministry‘s Main Directorate of Intelligence (HUR), General Sergey Kisel was dismissed from command of Russia’s Syrian military contingent.
Kisel had previously been removed from his position during the invasion of Ukraine. He was reassigned to Syria but has now been dismissed again, according to HUR. This change in leadership comes as Russian forces face significant losses after a surprise offensive by pro-Turkish forces.
**Syrian Opposition Gains Ground**
The Syrian rebels, led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), launched a surprise attack on 29 November, capturing Aleppo and over 50 towns and villages. They also seized key areas, including Aleppo’s international airport, forcing government forces to retreat. In response, Russian and Syrian warplanes intensified airstrikes on rebel-held territories.
**Diplomatic Efforts**
The Kremlin has responded to the challenges by deploying General Alexander Chayko, who previously commanded Russian troops in Syria between 2017-2019. Russian Navy Admiral Aleksandr Moiseyev has also appeared at the naval base in Tartus.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has engaged in diplomatic communications with Turkish and Iranian foreign ministers to discuss the escalating situation. However, it remains uncertain whether Russia can deploy additional assets to support Syrian President Bashar al-Assad’s regime, given its ongoing operational commitments in Ukraine.