Russia shipped a diesel cargo to Syria onboard a tanker under U.S. sanctions, the first known such direct supply to the Middle Eastern country in more than a decade, LSEG data showed.

More than 70 people were killed and dozens wounded in clashes between Syrian security forces and Assad loyalists in Latakia. The violence began when pro-Assad fighters attacked security checkpoints, prompting helicopter strikes.

Russia has sought a rapprochement with Syria’s new rulers, including with an injection of cash for Syria’s central bank.

The discussions between Moscow and Damascus have revolved primarily around the future of Russia’s military presence in Syria, particularly the Hmeimim Air Base and the Tartus naval facility.

Syria received a new shipment of its local currency printed in Russia on Wednesday and more shipments were expected in the future, a Syrian government official said, in a new sign of improving ties between Moscow and Syria's new rulers.

Russia views Libya as an anchor for further entrenchment in the Sahel, where Western disengagement and weakened governments create openings. From oil in Libya to gold in Sudan to uranium in Niger, control of North Africa’s resources would feed Russia’s broader power projection goals.

Size of delivery, the second since Ahmed al-Sharaa came into power, is unclear; Moscow seeking to maintain influence in Damascus after backing ousted leader Assad during civil war

Russia shipped a diesel cargo to Syria onboard a tanker under U.S. sanctions, the first known such direct supply to the Middle Eastern country in more than a decade, LSEG data showed. The final destination of the cargo is unclear.

For years, soldiers from Russia's Hmeimim Air Base in Syria roamed freely through coastal cities. War planes flew from the complex to bombard Islamist rebels fighting Bashar al-Assad's repressive regime.

Russia shipped a diesel cargo to Syria onboard a tanker under U.S. sanctions, the first known such direct supply to the Middle Eastern country in more than a decade, LSEG data showed.