Russian Forces Withdraw from Syria's Qamishli Airbase
Russia has begun a phased military withdrawal from the Qamishli airbase in northeastern Syria, with footage showing fighter jets and elite units being evacuated.
Russian military forces have begun withdrawing from the Qamishli airbase in northeastern Syria, with fighter jets, helicopters, and other equipment being loaded onto transport aircraft, according to multiple reports.
The evacuation, which started on January 23, 2026, includes an elite unit and is part of a phased withdrawal from the site, located in SDF/YPG-held territory in Al-Hasakah province.
Videos captured on January 26 show Russian troops loading cargo into transport planes, such as IL-76 aircraft, at the airbase.
Syrian authorities may soon demand a complete Russian departure from the airfield, one of three remaining Russian bases in the region, according to sources.
This follows a partial withdrawal from the airport in December 2024.
The Qamishli airfield has been under Russian control, and the move comes amid broader shifts in Syria's military landscape.
No official statements from Moscow or Damascus have been reported.