First Group of Russian Su-34 Bombers Arrives Home From Syria

First group of Russian Su-34 bomber jets has arrived from Syria and landed in Russia's Voronezh.

The pilots were welcomed home by their family and friends with flags, balloons, and flowers.

Earlier on Tuesday, the Russian Defense Ministry announced that the first group of Russian aircraft had left the base. The group included Tu-154 transport aircraft, and several Su-34 jets. 

Late on Monday, Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered the Defense Ministry to withdraw the bulk of the Russian military contingent in Syria. Russia's aerial campaign in Syria has, on the whole, accomplished its objectives, Putin said.

Later, the chair of the Russian Federation Council's Committee on Defense and Security said that around 1,000 Russian service personnel and some reconnaissance aircraft would remain at the Hmeymim and Tartus bases. The remaining forces are due to monitor the ongoing ceasefire in Syria.