Russian combat aircraft spotted over Manbij.

Against the backdrop of the fact that only 12 hours remained before the expiration of the Turkish ultimatum to the Kurds regarding the need for an unconditional retreat from Manbij and the outskirts of the city, Russian military aircraft were seen over the region. The purpose of the flights was not disclosed by the North Press Agency, however, experts do not exclude that we are talking about ordinary patrols in order to demonstrate to Turkish militants their readiness to defend Manbij from any attacks.

In the video footage presented, a pair of Russian combat helicopters can be seen flying over the eastern part of Manbij. This direction, as well as the northern outskirts of the city, is considered the most likely to be attacked by Turkish militants and the Turkish army. This is especially true against the background of the statement by the head of the Turkish Ministry of Defense, Hulusi Akar, that a military operation in Syria will still be carried out, regardless of the circumstances.

Despite the expiration of the ultimatum set by Turkey, so far no hostilities have been recorded in the region, however, sources report that the Kurdish formation of the Syrian National Army refused to withdraw its units from Manbij and Tel Rifat.