The Russian authorities plan to maintain a limited military presence in Syria. The Kremlin aims to counter the resurgence of influence by Islamic State militants in the country. However, the feasibility of this plan remains uncertain,

Russia will likely keep a reduced military presence in Syria, achieving a key objective for President Vladimir Putin after the downfall of the Assad regime he backed, according to people familiar with the matter.

Russia is reportedly nearing a deal with Syria to maintain a limited military presence in the country after the fall of former President Bashar al-Assad's regime, Bloomberg reported on Feb. 17, citing sources familiar with the matter.