On June 8, 2024, Russian forces conducted joint military exercises with the Syrian army at the port of Tartus, a strategic location with significant geopolitical implications. These exercises, although part of routine military cooperation, carried deeper, more complex objectives. Notably, the training included Syrian Division 25 and Special Forces, excluding the Syrian Navy, and involved the use of advanced air defense systems and Iranian drones. The exercise not only underscored Russia’s ongoing influence in Syria but also signaled Moscow’s readiness to deploy Syrian fighters in broader military engagements, particularly in Ukraine. This development highlights the growing role of Syrian forces in Russia’s military strategy, reflecting the deepening ties between Moscow and Damascus amidst the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.