The recent capture of Aleppo by Syrian rebels has sparked speculation about Ukraine's involvement in the operation, with allegations of support through drone technology and intelligence training. While Russian officials accuse Ukraine of aiding Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) with advanced FPV drones, local and independent analysts suggest the rebels have long relied on their own drone programs and regional smuggling networks. The claims highlight the complexity of alliances in Syria's ongoing conflict.
The Syrian rebels’ unexpected offensive and capture of Aleppo have fueled speculation about Ukraine’s involvement in planning the operation against the Russian-backed Syrian government.
Reports suggest that Ukrainian intelligence has, over the years, shared footage of sabotage and attacks targeting Russian forces in northern Syria. These often featured the use of first-person-view (FPV) “kamikaze” drones—a technology Ukraine has refined since the 2022 Russian invasion. Observers in Turkey believe these drones have provided Syrian opposition fighters with a significant tactical edge, enabling them to strike beyond enemy lines and neutralize armored vehicles, causing defensive positions to collapse.
Pro-Kremlin sources, including a Telegram channel linked to the Russian defense ministry, likened the offensive to Ukraine’s surprise attack in the Kursk region in 2022. Russian officials, including Syria envoy Alexander Lavrentiev, have accused Ukraine of supplying FPV drones to Idlib-based rebels and training Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) fighters to produce drones. Syrian and Russian sources also alleged links between Ukraine’s Defense Intelligence Directorate (GUR) and HTS leadership.
Despite these claims, analysts and local sources challenge the extent of Ukraine's role. Turkish insiders told Middle East Eye that HTS acquires drones independently via smuggling networks and regional black markets, with no reliance on Ukrainian support. Additionally, longstanding rebel groups like the Falcon Brigade have been manufacturing drones for years using parts imported from countries like China.
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A Ukrainian official acknowledged limited interaction with Syrian rebels, but downplayed Kyiv’s involvement in the Aleppo offensive, describing its contribution as “minimal.” Analysts like Anton Mardasov from the Middle East Institute view claims of Ukrainian involvement as exaggerated, similar to past narratives about Ukraine aiding Tuareg rebels in Mali. He attributed these stories to routine intelligence exchanges rather than substantial cooperation.
The allegations and denials underscore the complexity of the regional conflict, where overlapping alliances and covert operations blur lines between fact and speculation.
Source: MEE