AFP reports that Wednesday morning, a second unit of Russia warplanes departed the Hmeimim airbase in Syria, following Russia's decision to withdraw the majority of its forces from Syria.
Russian SU-25 combat aircraft and IL-76 transport planes left Hmeimim airbase early Wednesday, according to the Russian defense ministry.
Russian President Vladimir Putin announced on Monday that the majority of Russian forces in Syria would pull out. Some air and naval bases will remain functioning in Syria, and Russia will continue limited airstrikes on "terrorist targets."
According to AFP, Russia planes began leaving Syria on Tuesday. The next round of departures is not known.
Russia's decision to withdraw troops from Syria was greeted favorably by the UN and parties involved with the ongoing Syria peace talks.
"We hope (this) will have a positive impact on the progress of the negotiations," said UN special envoy to Syria Staffan de Mistura.
