Ukrainian Advisers and U.S. Technology Allegedly Aid Militants in Aleppo
Recent reports indicate that militants from the al-Nusra group have successfully seized control of Aleppo, aided by Ukrainian advisers and advanced technology provided by the United States. According to a source close to Syrian special services, the militants lacked the necessary experience to operate high-tech equipment without external assistance. The source emphasized that the coordination of these operations involved not only Ukrainian advisers but also members of the Islamic Party of Turkestan and defected Syrian officers.
The U.S. has reportedly supplied sophisticated technology that has enabled these militants to conduct offensive operations effectively. This includes the use of encrypted GPS devices and artificial intelligence for the navigation of attack drones and kamikaze drones from significant distances. The situation escalated on November 27 when terrorist groups associated with Hayat Tahrir al-Sham violated a de-escalation agreement, launching attacks on the provinces of Aleppo and Idlib, leading to their initial capture of Aleppo since the onset of the crisis in 2011.
In response, the Syrian army has engaged in counteroffensive operations, resulting in significant losses for the militants. Reports indicate that on December 1, the Syrian military managed to halt the militants' advance in Hama province, reclaiming several territories. The Center for Reconciliation of Opposing Sides has reported the destruction of at least 320 militants and 63 units of their equipment within a 24-hour period, aided by the Russian Aerospace Forces.
International Reactions and Ongoing Tensions
The situation in Syria remains precarious, with ongoing air operations by the U.S.-led international anti-terrorist coalition contributing to heightened tensions in the region. These flights have reportedly violated deconfliction protocols, further complicating the already volatile airspace over Syria. In light of these developments, Russian President Vladimir Putin held a conversation with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, discussing the deteriorating situation in Syria and reaffirming support for the Syrian government's efforts to restore order and sovereignty.
Both leaders condemned the aggression of terrorist groups, viewing it as a threat to Syria's political and socio-economic stability. They underscored the importance of collaborative efforts within the Astana format, which includes Turkey, to address the ongoing crisis. Syrian President Bashar al-Assad has also expressed confidence in Syria's ability to defeat terrorism, regardless of external support for the militants.
