Concurrently, marine traffic monitors show a Vladivostok-bound cargo ship, Ursa Major, previously registered as Sparta III and visually matching the picture published by HUR, moving at a very low speed of little over 1 knot in the open sea between Spain and Algeria.

We believe it is crucial for the security of the Syrian people and the region as a whole to remove any Russian presence from Syria,' Zelenskyy added on X.

Today, on Saturday, December 21, 34 people were evacuated from Syria as a result of a successful operation by the Defense Intelligence of Ukraine and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine. Among them are 15 children.

Russia's focus on subjugating Ukraine was one of the factors that led to the abrupt demise of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, Moscow’s main client in the region. Here's how Moscow’s big Middle East setback could affect Russia's war against Ukraine.

Syria's main ports are working normally after days of disruptions, maritime officials said on Monday, and Ukraine said it was in touch with the interim government about delivering staple foods.

Following are some of the key quotes from Russian President Vladimir Putin's annual phone-in and press conference.

In abandoning Syria’s Bashar-al Assad, Vladimir Putin showed where his interests really lie, Alexandra Vacroux writes in a guest commentary.

It’s uncertain how much success Russia is having while negotiating with Syria’s dominant forces to retain its naval and air bases in the country. Kremlin’s ambitions in the Middle East and Africa might take a hit.

Sham, or HTS, made a lightning assault across Syria. Where did the rebels get the cash, weapons and training that made their takeover possible?

"We are ready to help Syria prevent a food crisis ... I have instructed the government to organize food deliveries in cooperation with international organizations and partners willing to help."

In an hourlong televised meeting with his top military brass, Vladimir Putin left Syria unmentioned and made it clear that winning in Ukraine was his top priority.

Russia sent a ship to evacuate soldiers and equipment from its bases in Syria but it broke down en route, according to Ukrainian intelligence.