Damascus recaptures major oil assets in Deir ez-Zor, curbing Moscow’s leverage over Syria’s energy sector and broader influence.
Syria has reclaimed critical oil fields in Deir ez-Zor, including the Omar and Tanak fields and the Conoco gas field, following a January military offensive against Kurdish-led forces. These assets, previously controlled by the Syrian Democratic Forces, account for a significant portion of the country’s onshore production capacity.
Prior to the civil war, Syria’s oil output was concentrated in the northeast, with Deir ez-Zor and Hasakah as key hubs. The loss of these fields to non-state actors had forced Damascus to rely on external allies, notably Russia, for energy supplies and political support. The recent recovery marks a shift in control dynamics.
The move weakens Russia’s strategic foothold in Syria, as Damascus regains direct access to domestic energy resources. Markets may monitor implications for regional stability and energy supply chains.