ALEPPO, Syria — Russian forces in Syria recently announced the Syrian government was opening several crossings with the Syrian opposition in Idlib in northwestern Syria in order to facilitate the return of the displaced.

Deputy director of the Russian Khmeimim air base in Latakia Maj. Gen. Vyacheslav Sitnik said Feb. 15 in a statement to the Russian state-owned Ria Novosti news agency, “Syrian authorities will open three additional crossings [allowing] residents to leave Idlib due to the deterioration of the economic situation there and shortage of medical assistance.”

“The Syrian authorities, with the help of the Russian Reconciliation Center for Syria, have been preparing for opening crossings from Saraqeb, Miznas and Abu Zendin for those who wish to leave Idlib through the de-escalation zone,” he added.

The announcement raises many questions about its seriousness and timing and as to the locations of the crossings to be opened. Questions also arise about the possible gains the regime and its allies are seeking to achieve through this move. Would the thousands of displaced Syrians react positively to this announcement?