Russia Pulls Out Of Syria, Sudan Seeks New Ways To Fight Junta

THE WAR NEWSLETTER — DEC 13 2024

Today’s email brings you news from Syria and Sudan.

1 - SYRIA

1 thing to know

Russia is withdrawing military assets from Syria even as they negotiate their future presence in Syria.

The context 

After the fall of the Assad regime in Syria, Russia is systematically evacuating its forces from key bases like Hmeimim Air Base and the Port of Tartus, with satellite imagery showing military transport preparations. 

Despite withdrawal, Russia is negotiating with the new Syrian authorities, including Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), to maintain some military presence.

More from the region

The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), a Kurdish-Arab coalition, is struggling as Arab communities begin defecting, particularly in Deir ez Zor and Raqqa. SDF Commander Mazloum Abdi is currently attempting to negotiate the group's role in the future Syrian government.

Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), currently in control of much of Syria, captured Deir ez Zor City from the SDF and deployed military police to manage the transition. Despite HTS’ initial message of tolerance, there have been reports of harassment against women and non-muslim religious groups.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) are preparing to stay on Syrian Mt. Hermon through the winter, viewing the location as crucial for monitoring the volatile border region. The IDF has also conducted multiple airstrikes targeting Assad-regime military installations near Damascus.

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TECH SPOTLIGHT: THE STRIKER II

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What it’s used for

The Striker II is used chiefly in Europe, but also in both Asia and the Middle East. While it is primarily paired with advanced fighter aircraft, it is also compatible with some older and fixed-wing aircraft as well.

2 - SUDAN

1 thing to know

Sudan's anti-war coalition is considering a government-in-exile in an attempt to stop the ongoing civil war.

The context

The Coordination of Civil Democratic Forces (Taqaddum) in Sudan is considering the formation of a government-in-exile to challenge the military junta that seized power in an October 2021 coup. The move faces internal opposition within Taqaddum as well as international concerns, including from the US, and aims to restore civilian rule and end the civil war.

Taqaddum is also criticizing the junta's divisive measures and efforts to prolong the conflict. In South Sudan, President Salva Kiir has urged the new army chief, General Paul Nang Majok, to turn the South Sudan People's Defense Forces (SSPDF) into a professional military, free from political involvement and corruption.

More from the region

The Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) captured Wad al-Haddad in southern Al-Jazira State, and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) launched several counterattacks, recapturing the village of Um al-Qura in the same region.

Fighting continues in Blue Nile State, where the RSF have attacked military positions near the South Sudan border, and in White Nile State, where RSF forces are targeting key military installations. Civilian casualties are still mounting, caused by artillery and airstrikes from both sides.

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