Turkish-backed Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS, a terrorist group banned in Russia – editor’s note) militants have made significant gains in northwest Syria, advancing deep into Latakia province. Their offensive, which began this week, has threatened Russia’s key Khmeimim airbase on the Mediterranean coast, NZIV reports.

According to reports, fighting has intensified in the strategic area of ​​Qalaat al-Madiq, northwest of Hama. The city was captured by terrorist forces after a rapid offensive that broke through the Syrian army's defenses. The area plays a vital role in connecting the western coastal areas with the rest of northwestern Syria.

It is noted that the Khmeimim airbase, located just 35 kilometers from the front line, has become one of the main targets of opposition groups. This base, which has been used by Russia since 2015 to support Bashar al-Assad, is an important element of Moscow's strategic influence in the Middle East. It is emphasized that the increased threat to the airbase is causing concern among the Russian military, which is taking additional security measures, including airstrikes on the positions of the advancing forces.

Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, a former al-Qaeda affiliate, is leading the offensive, using assault units and artillery support to push Syrian troops out of key positions. The opposition is making rapid advances westward, leaving the Syrian army in a difficult position. According to sources, government lines of defense are under severe pressure and the military is struggling to maintain control of strategic areas.

Russian forces deployed in Syria responded to the threat with a series of airstrikes against opposition positions. The strikes were aimed at disrupting supply lines and disrupting militants in the rear. However, despite these efforts, the militant offensive continues to mount, undermining stability in the region.