In a major shakeup of Russian military leadership in Syria, Moscow has removed General Sergey Kiselyov from his command position following substantial battlefield setbacks and mounting casualties. The Kremlin has appointed General Alexander Chayko, who previously led forces in Syria from 2017-2019, to take over operations.
The leadership change comes as pro-Turkish forces launched a successful three-day offensive in Syria's Aleppo region starting November 27, reportedly leaving Russian units surrounded and hundreds of troops missing in action. The offensive is being spearheaded by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, a coalition of Islamist militant groups operating from the Idlib area.
Adding to Moscow's concerns, Admiral Alexander Moiseev, commander of the Russian Navy, has made an appearance at Russia's naval facility in Tartus, suggesting high-level attention to the deteriorating situation.
The setbacks in Syria mark another blow for Kiselyov, who was previously dismissed from his role in Ukraine due to operational failures before being reassigned to the Syrian theater.
Reports indicate that rebel groups received specialized training from Ukraine's Main Intelligence Directorate (HUR) Khimik unit, particularly in drone warfare and tactical approaches developed during the Ukraine conflict. The Khimik group has been credited with several successful operations against Russian forces in Syria, including a September strike on a Russian base near Aleppo that destroyed military equipment.
Ukrainian special forces have maintained an active presence in Syria throughout 2023, conducting multiple strikes against Russian military installations, checkpoints, and patrol units. These operations have particularly focused on areas around Aleppo and the Golan Heights region.
The recent developments represent a notable setback for Russian military operations in Syria, where Moscow has maintained a substantial presence supporting the Assad regime since 2015.