Syrian rebels 35 km from the Russian Federation Khmeimim: What can lose Russian forces (photo)

The offensive that began in the region allowed the opposition forces to move deep into the province of Latakia and approach the distance of 35 kilometers from the base. This was reported on December 3 by Defense Blog. The rebels captured the city of Kalaat al-Madik, located in a strategically important area between the coastal areas and the rest of the northwest of Syria.

The promotion is accompanied by a weakening of the defensive positions of Syrian government troops, which threatens the stability of the region. At the same time, the Khmeimim Air Base, which is the main center of Russia's air operations in the Middle East, was at risk. The rebels are probably seeking to reach one of the most important military sites in the region, as Russian military is inflicting air strikes on Islamists to slow down their offensive and prevent further promotion.

The Air Base, located in the province of Latakia, serves as a key stronghold of Russia since 2015. Here are deployed air defense systems C-400, modern Su-34 planes, Su-24 bombers and reconnaissance drones. The base plays an important role in maintaining Bashar Assad regime, providing air operations and projection of Russia's power in the Middle East.

In addition, the object provides Russia with operational flexibility in Syria and access to the Eastern Mediterranean to resist the influence of the NATO block in the region. Views believe that insurgents can try to attack the base using drones or missile installations. In the past, such incidents have already occurred, but reducing the distance to Khmeimim increases the danger.

And if the insurgents succeed, in addition to the loss of technical terms, the Russian contingent will suffer a strong psychological pressure, as the attack undermines the moral spirit of Syrian forces and belief in stability through Russian presence. In turn, Russia has already intensified security measures and intensified air operations in the region to restrain the rebels.