Here we go again

For just under a week, the tug Churov, likely accompanied by the submarine Krasnodar, has been stationed off the coast of Tartus.

Russian Navy Morse code weather from Tug SB-921 Evgeniy Churov, 8345 Kilohertz CW, 1804 UTC

RIW DE RMEV 08181 99350 10357 41497 41905 10177 40125 52006 70210 84600 22291 20401 08012 BT AR RMEV K

35.0N 35.7E Heading ? at 1-5 Knots https://t.co/1hsBaIaYBG

— TJ (@te3ej) March 8, 2025

Initially, it was speculated that the two vessels were merely passing through the Mediterranean. However, their course toward the Syrian port suggested they were planning to make a stop there.

Yet, nearly a week has passed, and they remain on standby off the coast of the Syrian city. Additionally, in recent days, clashes have erupted in various parts of Syria, particularly in the Tartus region, raising the possibility that this might not be the most suitable time to enter the port.

What will happen next? Is it just a matter of time before the Russian vessels return to Tartus, or will they have to come up with a “Plan B”?

It is worth recalling that Russian cargo and military ships transporting military equipment back to Russia previously had to wait several weeks before being allowed to enter the Syrian port.