Some of the Russian military are "stuck" in the open sea on the wrecked cargo ship "Sparta" during the evacuation from Syria. This was reported in Telegram by the Main Intelligence Directorate (GRU) of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine, quoted by Focus.
"The cargo ship "Sparta", sent by Russia to evacuate weapons and equipment from Syria, broke down while underway. The damage is in the fuel pipe of one of the engines, which makes it difficult for the crew to fix the problem while the ship is drifting in the open sea near Portugal", the GRU statement said.
At the same time, the remaining units of the Russian military contingent in Syria have completed their withdrawal from remote areas. They are currently located in strategic bases, but some of the equipment has already begun to be moved from the Syrian port of Tartus to Libya.
Ukrainian intelligence adds that Russian military circles in Syria are actively discussing the possibility of a complete withdrawal from the country's territory. According to the GRU, the new Syrian government has demanded that Moscow withdraw its military contingent, including from the key bases in Hmeimim and Tartus, by February 20, 2025. The reason, as stated, is Damascus's desire to achieve the lifting of international sanctions.
The situation highlights the growing challenges facing Russia in Syria, including logistical problems and political tensions.