13 via X.Russian officials almost certainly view the collapse of the Assad regime as detrimental to their "regional interests" and damaging to their image as a "security guarantor," the ministry said.In Syria, Russia's primary goal has been to maintain control over critical military assets, including its largest overseas naval base in Tartus and the airbase in Khmeimim. These installations provide Moscow with strategic access to the Near East and Mediterranean Sea, enabling it to project military power across Africa and beyond. However, the potential collapse of Assad’s regime has “almost certainly increased the risk to the security of these assets,” according to the report.U.K. Defense Intelligence noted that Russia's leadership has prioritized the conflict in Ukraine, likely undermining its ability to sustain support for Assad in Syria.In light of these developments, Russia is expected to focus on repairing its international reputation as a reliable partner.