Part 3/14:
Following Assad’s departure—and his family’s flight to Moscow—there are rumors of Moscow reaching a deal with Syrian rebels to preserve its military presence. However, no concrete evidence supports claims of such an agreement. Moscow appears cautious, having already moved naval vessels away from Tartus and maintaining most personnel on-site amid ongoing diplomatic and military negotiations. Satellite imagery indicates a partial retreat: Russian warships are now patrolling 10 miles offshore, and equipment at the airbase remains largely unmoved—an indication of Moscow’s desire to keep options open, possibly hoping to negotiate long-term arrangements with a future Syrian government.