Russia has withdrawn the majority of its forces from Syria, weeks after the fall of Bashar al-Assad.

Vladimir Putin’s troops have vacated key positions, including the Qamishli base in northern Syria, Ukraine’s main military intelligence directorate has said.

Russia still maintains a presence in coastal Syria at Khmeimim air base and the port of Tartus, but reports indicate it is preparing to either significantly draw down or withdraw fully.

The withdrawal highlights Moscow’s shifting priorities, raising questions about its ability to maintain influence in the region amid ongoing instability. But it also raises doubts about Russia’s ability to project its power into Africa.