Putin Defends Russia's Syria Intervention Amid Rising Tensions with Israel

Russian President Vladimir Putin addressed several key issues during his annual marathon news conference on Thursday, including Russia's nine-year military intervention in Syria. Putin rejected claims that Moscow’s involvement in Syria had been a failure, despite the toppling of his long-time ally, Bashar al-Assad. He also expressed concern over Israel's military operations in Syria, particularly since Assad's fall.

Putin emphasized that Russia’s military intervention, which began in 2015, had helped prevent Syria from becoming a "terrorist enclave." He noted that Israel was a "main beneficiary" of the current situation in Syria, as the ongoing conflict has disrupted Syria’s stability. The Russian leader also stated that his government had made proposals to the new rulers in Damascus to maintain Russia's air and naval bases in Syria, which remain critical to Moscow's strategic interests in the region.

Israel's Increasing Military Presence in Syria

Since Assad’s fall in early December, Israel has increased its military activity in Syria, conducting hundreds of air strikes aimed at destroying Syrian army weapons and equipment. Putin condemned Israel's actions, particularly its incursion into Syrian territory near the Golan Heights. He noted that Israeli forces had moved 25 kilometers into Syrian territory, reaching fortifications built during the Soviet era, which Russia views as a violation of Syria’s sovereignty.

Putin expressed hopes that Israel would eventually withdraw from Syrian territory, though he expressed doubts, stating that Israel appeared determined to reinforce its military presence.

The Role of HTS and Regional Dynamics

Putin also commented on the role of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) in Syria, a key player in the recent developments. HTS forces have capitalized on the collapse of Assad’s regime, rapidly advancing through regions such as Aleppo, Hama, and Homs. Russia, which had supported Assad for years, now faces the challenge of dealing with HTS, which has historically opposed Russian interests in Syria.

Meanwhile, Turkey, which has its own security concerns regarding Kurdish fighters in Syria, has continued its military operations in the region. Putin acknowledged Turkey's actions but reiterated Russia’s commitment to Syria’s territorial integrity and sovereignty.

Ongoing Crisis in Ukraine

In addition to his remarks on Syria, Putin also addressed the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, where Russian air strikes have intensified. On December 20, Russian missiles, including hypersonic Kinzhal and Iskander/KN-23 ballistic missiles, targeted Kyiv and other Ukrainian cities, leaving at least two people dead and several others wounded. Ukraine's capital and the southern region of Kherson were heavily affected, with a general air-raid alert issued across the country.

Ukrainian forces are facing mounting difficulties in defending against Russia’s rapid advance, particularly in the east, where Russian forces have stepped up their attacks. The escalation in Ukraine continues to strain both Ukrainian and Russian forces, with the civilian population enduring frequent drone and missile strikes.