Syria: A local force to protect the Syrian coast region under Russian supervision

Russia is preparing with cooperation with the Syrian authorities, preparing and forming 10,000-strong security force whose primary mission will be to maintain security and stability in the Syrian coastal region.

Talks between Moscow and Damascus regarding this force are ongoing, amid expectations that they will soon yield positive results.

They acceleration of this step came in light of the increasing threats in the coast, especially with the expanding influence of regional parties, most notably Iran, and the division of loyalties between parties loyal to the former regime and others affiliated with Russia.

In this regard, Russian cargo planes recently landed at the Hmeimim military airport in Latakia, amid speculation that they were carrying equipment for the new security force that Russia is working to establish in coordination with the Syrian government.

There was reports that Moscow had summoned former Syrian army officers with the rank of captain and above to the Hmeimim base and signed new contracts with them to work under the direct supervision of Russian forces.