Rubio Warns of Impending Collapse of Syrian Transitional Government
Senator Rubio predicts the collapse of Syria’s transitional regime in weeks, warning of a potential civil war amid escalating violence. Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov charges that radical groups are committing ethnic cleansing. Recent military tensions at the Hmeimim airbase raise concerns about broader instability, coinciding with a significant policy shift from the U.S. regarding sanctions on Syria.
U.S. Senator Marco Rubio recently informed the Senate Foreign Relations Committee that he anticipates the collapse of Syria’s transitional government could occur in mere weeks. He emphasized the severity of the situation, stating, “It is our assessment that, frankly, the transitional authority, given the challenges they’re facing, are maybe weeks, not many months, away from potential collapse and a full-scale civil war of epic proportions—basically the country splitting up.” This assessment raises alarms about the potential for increased violence in the region.
Coinciding with Rubio’s remarks, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov alleged that radical militant groups in Syria are engaging in ethnic cleansing. In statements made during a Moscow reception, he decried the ongoing violence, particularly noting that, “Radical militant groups are carrying out real ethnic cleansing, mass killings of people based on their nationality and religion.” However, he did not specify the groups involved, leading to some ambiguity regarding the situation on the ground.
Russia has historically backed Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, who is currently in exile in Russia after being ousted from power. The relationship has been maintained through military support, evidenced by two significant Russian military bases in Syria: the Hmeimim airbase and the Tartus naval facility. These bases are strategic for Moscow and mark its enduring presence in the region.
Recent reports indicate that the Hmeimim base in northwest Syria, once a stronghold for Assad’s government, suffered an assault. Sources suggest that this region has experienced a surge in sectarian violence since March, leading to many Alawite deaths. A Syrian security official reported from Latakia that the motive for the attack on the base, which previously provided refuge for Alawite individuals, remains unclear, prompting an ongoing investigation into the incident.
Moreover, a pro-Russian Telegram channel called Military Informer released what it claimed was footage depicting clashes between Russian personnel and Syrian fighters at the Hmeimim base, although the authenticity of the footage remains unverified by independent sources.
In a separate but relevant development, earlier this month, former President Donald Trump lifted longstanding U.S. sanctions placed on Syria during Assad’s reign. This shift signifies a notable change in U.S. policy concerning the Middle East, which could have broader implications for regional stability.
Senator Marco Rubio’s warning about the imminent collapse of Syria’s transitional government underscores a precarious situation that may lead to extensive civil unrest. Coupled with Lavrov’s grave accusations against radical militant groups and recent military tensions surrounding key Russian bases, it paints a troubling picture of the future in Syria. The U.S.’s recent policy shift further complicates an already volatile situation as the world watches closely.
Original Source: www.ynetnews.com
