The American newspaper quoted Western officials and an Israeli military official (who requested anonymity) that Moscow recently transferred part of its forces and a Russian air defense system (S-300) from Syria, "which led to the removal of one of the main restrictions on the Israeli military in Syria."
According to Western sources, the total strength of the Russian forces that withdrew from Syria ranges from 1,200 to 1,600 soldiers, while another senior official claims that the number is much higher.
The "New York Times" reported that Russia recently reduced its military role in Syria, including coordination with the Israeli side, at the same time as withdrawing a large number of its forces from Syrian territory due to its increasing losses in Ukraine, which may change the rules of engagement with Israel in Syria.