Syrian Rebels Take Hama, DOD Announces $725 Million For Ukraine

THE WAR NEWSLETTER — DEC 5 2024

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

1 - SYRIA

1 thing to know

Syrian militants capture Hama, dealing a severe blow to President Bashar al-Assad's regime

The context 

On December 5, 2024, the jihadi group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) and Turkish-backed Syrian militias swept into Hama, a central Syrian city that had remained under government control throughout most of the civil war. The Syrian army withdrew from the city, marking a significant strategic defeat for Assad.

HTS, formerly associated with al-Qaeda but now presenting a more diplomatic face, has demonstrated remarkable military capabilities. Unlike more extreme terrorist groups, HTS leader Abu Mohammed al-Golani has pledged to protect religious minorities and called for a "conquering that is not vengeful, but one of mercy and compassion."

Homs, Syria's third-largest city, appears to be the rebels' next target. Located just 40 kilometers from Hama, Homs is a crucial crossroads connecting Damascus to the north and coast.

More from the region

The Assad regime is experiencing its greatest challenge in years. Some wonder whether the government will be able to survive this renewed insurgency.

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TECH SPOTLIGHT: SIKORSKY CH-54 TARHE

The Sikorsky CH-54 Tarhe is a heavy-lift cargo helicopter developed by Sikorsky Aircraft in the 1960s for the United States Army. Designed to carry large and heavy loads, it is capable of lifting up to 20,000 pounds using a twin-turbine engine configuration.

The CH-54's primary mission was to transport artillery, vehicles, and other large equipment to remote or difficult-to-access locations. The landing gear was built to kneel to aid in loading, and when equipped with "people pod", was capable of carrying 87 combat-ready troops.

What it’s used for

The CH-54 was retired in the 1980s, and was later replaced by the CH-47 Chinook, but was used extensively during the Vietnam War where it was used to provide support and transportation to American ground forces. It also saw use by the US National Guard, and was also used to lift the air conditioners onto the roof of the Pentagon.

2 - UKRAINE

1 thing to know

The US Department of Defense announced another round of military funding to Ukraine, worth $725 million.

The context 

In his last week in office, US President Joe Biden is rushing to force through more military funding to Ukraine, this time putting together an aid package worth $725 million.

The package includes Stinger man-portable air-defense system (MANPADS) missiles, HIMARS ammunition, 155mm and 105mm artillery ammunition, and other missile munitions.  In total so far, the US has provided over $102 billion in aid to Ukraine.

More from the region

Ukrainian forces have regained some lost positions In Kursk Oblast, and advanced near southern Darino. They also repelled Russian advances in Luhansk Oblast. Russian forces continue their push into Donetsk Oblast, but made no confirmed advances.

The onset of winter weather is likely negatively impacting both the Ukrainian and Russian forces, but Russian troops have been attempting to take advantage of reduced drone activity to conduct ground assaults.

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