Russia Alleges U.S.-U.K. Plot to Attack Military Bases in Syria
By Kardo Roj
DAMASCUS, Syria (North Press) – On Saturday, Russian intelligence accused American and British agencies of planning attacks on Russian military bases in Syria. According to Russia’s state-run media, the alleged plot involves leveraging ISIS operatives to destabilize the region and force Moscow to withdraw its forces.
The Russian Foreign Intelligence Service (SVR) issued a statement claiming that U.S. and U.K. intelligence services are orchestrating “terrorist attacks” against Russian installations, particularly the Khmeimim Airbase in Latakia.
Allegations of Destabilization Post-Assad
The SVR’s statement suggested that Western powers are working to prevent stability in Syria following the ousting of President Bashar al-Assad. It alleged that the ultimate goal of these provocations is to undermine Russia’s military presence and accuse the new Syrian authorities of failing to control extremist factions.
“Washington and London are intent on destabilizing Syria to force Russia’s withdrawal, using this chaos as leverage to discredit the new Syrian administration,” the statement read.
ISIS’s Alleged Role
The Russian intelligence agency further accused U.S. and U.K. agencies of enlisting ISIS commanders to carry out these attacks. According to the SVR, these operatives have been supplied with advanced drones to target Russian bases.
“Field commanders of ISIS have reportedly received strike drones to attack Russian military sites, aiming to provoke a significant response,” the statement added.
Russian Presence as a Regional Stabilizer
Moscow reiterated that its military presence on Syria’s Mediterranean coast remains a stabilizing factor in the region. Russia’s Khmeimim Airbase has been a cornerstone of its operations in Syria since its intervention in 2015, which turned the tide in favor of the Assad regime during the country’s civil war.
The statement also dismissed rumors that Russian forces had detained Syrian officers at Khmeimim, labeling them as false and an attempt to sow discord between allies.
Responses from the Syrian Military
On Friday, the Syrian Military Operations Directorate denied reports of clashes or detentions involving Russian personnel at Khmeimim. A Syrian military spokesperson, speaking to Russia’s state news agency, said, “Our collaboration with Russian forces remains strong, and no incidents of the alleged nature have occurred.”
Escalating Tensions in Syria
The allegations come at a time of heightened tensions in Syria, following the regime change and ongoing regional instability. Observers suggest the accusations reflect Moscow’s concern over losing strategic influence in Syria as new political realities emerge.
Western Motives Questioned
Western powers have denied similar accusations in the past, dismissing them as part of Russia’s narrative to justify its continued military presence in Syria. Analysts argue that the claims could also be a response to mounting international scrutiny over Moscow’s involvement in the country.
The Bigger Picture
While the validity of these accusations remains unclear, they underscore the complexities of Syria’s post-Assad transition. With multiple international players vying for influence, the country remains a hotspot for geopolitical tensions.
Russia’s military presence in Syria, particularly at Khmeimim, continues to be a contentious issue, seen by Moscow as vital for regional stability and by its adversaries as an impediment to lasting peace.