Russian forces have begun withdrawing from military positions in northeast Syria, including bases near Qamishli airport, an area controlled by the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF).

Axar.az reports that Associated Press journalists visiting one of the bases found it largely abandoned, with SDF fighters guarding the site.

An SDF fighter said Russian troops started evacuating their equipment around five or six days ago, transporting it by cargo plane. It remains unclear whether the equipment was sent to Russia or to the Hmeimim air base on Syria’s coast.

There has been no official comment from Moscow regarding the withdrawal.

The development comes amid shifting dynamics in Syria following the ouster of former President Bashar Assad in December 2024. Although Russia was a key ally of Assad during the civil war, it has since established relations with the new government in Damascus and continues to maintain its air and naval bases along the Syrian coast.

Meanwhile, a UN humanitarian convoy from Damascus reached Qamishli, delivering food, warm clothing and blankets. Further aid convoys are planned.

A ceasefire between Syrian government forces and the SDF, following clashes earlier this month, has been extended for another 15 days and is largely holding.