Russia has replaced the general in charge of its forces in Syria as rebel forces continue their lightning offensive in the country’s North West. 

The news came as Moscow’s forces were forced to rapidly withdraw from their Al-Suqaylabiyah base in the northern Hama countryside, and the Hama air base, leaving behind a large amount of equipment and munitions.

Reports also circulated online that “hundreds” of Russian soldiers have been listed as missing in Syria. The claims could not be immediately verified.

Meanwhile, Russian and Syrian warplanes began bombing Idlib, the rebel stronghold, overnight.

The Telegraph has witnessed a number of airstrikes. According to local sources, the planes were taking off from the Russian military base at Hmeimim Airport in the Latakia countryside in Syria.

Russia, a staunch ally of Syrian president Bashar al-Assad, joined Assad’s fight against insurgents in 2015, crucially turning the war in his favour.

The conflict has been largely dormant since 2020, when a ceasefire was agreed between Russia and Turkey, which supports the rebels. However, opposition forces have maintained control of the north-western city of Idlib and much of the surrounding province.

Responding to this week’s attacks, Russia said it is “in favour of the Syrian authorities bringing order to the area and restoring constitutional order as soon as possible”, and agreed to intensify efforts to stabilise the situation.