Ukrainian Special Forces Collaborate with Syrian Rebels to Target Russian Mercenaries in Syria

In a significant development, Ukrainian special forces, including the unit 'Khimik,' have been collaborating with Syrian rebels to attack Russian mercenaries in Syria. Exclusive footage obtained by the Kyiv Post, dated March 2024, reveals coordinated assaults in the Golan Heights, where Russian military forces are heavily concentrated.

Why this matters: This development has significant implications for global geopolitics, as it shows Ukraine's willingness to challenge Russian military influence beyond its borders. The consequences of this move could lead to a broader conflict or a shift in the balance of power in the region.

The Ukrainian special forces, supported by Syrian opposition groups, have launched numerous attacks on Russian military installations since the beginning of the year. These attacks have targeted checkpoints, strongholds, foot patrols, and military convoys using rocket-propelled grenades, improvised 'Tarab' mortars, and command wire or radio-controlled improvised explosive devices (IEDs).

Russia's intervention in Syria began in 2015 to support President Bashar al-Assad during the civil war, leading to a permanent deployment of thousands of Russian troops. This has made Russian forces in Syria more vulnerable to Ukraine's attacks, especially after some troops and equipment were redeployed to Ukraine in 2022.

The Ukrainian special forces' operations are part of a broader strategic effort to challenge Russian military interests globally. In May 2023, HUR Chief Kyrylo Budanov vowed to 'destroy Russian war criminals anywhere in the world, wherever they are.'

Professor Anthony Glees, a security and intelligence expert at the University of Buckingham, described the move as an 'excellent thing from everyone's perspective.' He likened Ukraine's actions to Britain's efforts against Hitler and the Nazis during World War II, stating, 'Syria's leader, Bashar al-Assad, is not only 100% on Putin's side, but relies totally on Putin's soldiers to stay in power.'

The footage shows explosive devices being deployed against vehicles and foot patrols, including a high-speed attack on a minibus traveling along a main road. These operations have had a significant impact on the Russian military presence in the region, as reported by the GUR.

Besides Syria, Ukrainian special forces are also actively pursuing pro-Kremlin Wagner PMC mercenaries in other regions, including Sudan. Earlier footage from February 2024 showed Ukrainian forces interrogating captured Wagner PMC mercenaries in Sudan.

This development highlights Ukraine's proactive stance in countering Russian military operations globally. The collaboration with Syrian rebels marks a significant step in Ukraine's broader strategy to challenge Russian influence and military presence beyond its borders.

Key Takeaways

• Ukrainian special forces, including 'Khimik,' collaborate with Syrian rebels to attack Russian mercenaries in Syria.
• Coordinated assaults target Russian military installations in the Golan Heights, using various weapons and tactics.
• This move challenges Russian military influence beyond Ukraine's borders, with global geopolitical implications.
• Ukraine's strategy aims to counter Russian military operations globally, including in Sudan, where Ukrainian forces have interrogated captured mercenaries.
• The collaboration marks a significant step in Ukraine's efforts to challenge Russian influence and military presence beyond its borders.