Foreign ministry spokesperson Zakharova cites evidence that Kiev’s intel may be working with terrorist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham
A significant “Ukrainian trace” has been detected among foreign fighters in northwestern Syria, according to a top Russian diplomat. In a recent briefing, Maria Zakharova, spokesperson for the Russian Foreign Ministry, presented evidence suggesting that Ukraine’s intelligence services may be collaborating with the terrorist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, known for its links to violent extremism.
“This is not the first region where the Kiev regime applies its criminal experience,” Zakharova stated, as cited by newspaper Vedomosti, highlighting previous Ukrainian involvement in conflicts across Africa and now in Syria. She also warned that these actions could escalate violence in the area.
The situation in Syria is increasingly tense, with militant groups ramping up attacks, especially in the city of Hama. “Radicals are clearly trying to undermine years of efforts toward stability in this country, posing serious security risks for civilians, particularly in conflict zones,” Zakharova explained. She condemned the use of civilians as human shields, describing it as a disturbing tactic amid the ongoing violence.
Zakharova also suggested that these terrorist acts likely benefit from external support aimed at reigniting conflict in Syria. “We express our solidarity with the leadership and people of Syria in this challenging situation,” she said, reaffirming Moscow’s commitment to the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
On Sunday, the Kyiv Post reported that several Islamist groups involved in recent attacks in Aleppo province may have received training from a Special Forces unit of Ukraine’s military intelligence service (HUR). The report by the Ukrainian outlet indicates that the Khimik Group, a unit within HUR, provided “operational training” to militants in Idlib province, an area not under Syrian government control.
The Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) terrorist group, formerly known as Jabhat al-Nusra, and its allies conducted a large-scale surprise attack in northwestern Syria last week. The militants pushed back government forces, seizing significant territory in Aleppo and Idlib provinces. Aleppo, Syria’s second-largest city, has been under government control since 2016.
HTS is classified as a terrorist organization by Syria, Russia, Iran, the US, and other countries. Its recent actions in Syria mark the first major clash between the jihadists and government forces since March 2020, when a ceasefire was brokered by Russia and Türkiye.
Syrian President Bashar Assad has vowed to “eliminate terrorists” and punish their “sponsors and supporters.” Damascus has accused Western nations of providing support to terrorist groups in the region. Meanwhile, Russian forces have intensified airstrikes against the militants, maintaining a strong military presence in Syria, with bases in Hmeimim and Tartus.
