Ukrainian forces have joined Syria in its attacks against Russian targets, marking a significant development in the ongoing conflicts. Exclusive footage obtained by the Kyiv Post reveals Ukrainian special forces and Syrian rebels collaborating to dismantle Russian mercenaries in Syria. The video, dated March 2024, highlights these strategic assaults.
The Ukrainian special unit “Khimik,” in cooperation with Syrian opposition groups, is focusing its operations on Russian mercenaries supporting the Bashar al-Assad regime. Intense fighting is concentrated in Syria’s southern region, particularly in the Golan Heights, where Russian military forces are heavily entrenched.
A source from Ukraine’s Military Intelligence Directorate (HUR), speaking on condition of anonymity, shared with the Kyiv Post that since the beginning of the year, these allied forces have launched numerous attacks on Russian military installations. Targets include checkpoints, strongholds, foot patrols, and military convoys.
The attacks employ a variety of tactics, using rocket-propelled grenades, improvised mortars, and IEDs. The footage shows explosive devices being deployed against vehicles and foot patrols, including a high-speed attack on a minibus traveling along a main road.
Russia‘s involvement in Syria dates back to 2015, aimed at supporting President Assad during the civil war. This has resulted in a substantial and sustained Russian military presence in the region. However, the recent redeployment of some Russian troops and equipment from Syria to Ukraine has potentially left their positions in Syria more vulnerable to these joint assaults.
Despite the redeployment, Russia has established numerous recruitment centres for Syrian mercenaries under the supervision of the “Center for the Reconciliation of Opposing Sides and Refugee Movement Control” at the Russian-occupied Khmeimim Air Base.
These centres recruit Syrian fighters, provide them with Russian passports, and integrate them into the Russian Armed Forces, often deploying them to conflict zones such as Ukraine.
In May 2023, HUR Chief Kyrylo Budanov vowed to target Russian war criminals globally, a commitment that extends beyond Syria.
Ukrainian special forces are also actively pursuing pro-Kremlin Wagner PMC mercenaries in other regions, including Sudan.
Earlier footage obtained by the Kyiv Post in February showed Ukrainian forces interrogating captured Wagner PMC mercenaries in Sudan. One detainee admitted to being part of a group sent to destabilise the local government.