Syria says reached deal with Moscow on fate of Russian bases

Damascus announced on August 9 that it had reached an agreement with Russia concerning the future of two Russian military bases in Syria. The Hmeimim airbase and Tartus naval base are key assets that Russia previously utilized to support ousted Syrian President Bashar al-Assad during the 13-year civil war. The demise of Assad in 2024 significantly diminished Russia's influence in the region.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has since endeavored to strengthen ties with Syria's new leadership to safeguard the future of these bases. According to Syria's official SANA news agency, the foreign ministry stated that the two bases would be transformed into joint training and capacity-building centers, fostering mutual interests.

Following a year and a half of negotiations, a memorandum of understanding was signed, setting a three-month deadline for its completion, according to SANA. Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani toured the sites on Sunday to supervise the facilities and installations included in the accord. Meanwhile, civilian facilities at both bases will be transferred to Damascus.

The head of Syria's Civil Aviation Authority, Omar al-Hasri, disclosed that the authority is assuming control of Latakia's international airport, a civilian facility near Hmeimim that was closely linked to Russia's presence. Hasri emphasized that the authority's specialized teams have commenced a technical and operational assessment of the airport, preparing a plan to rehabilitate it.

The move is seen as a crucial step towards restoring and integrating Syrian airports into the national civil aviation system. Syria has shown a willingness to collaborate with Russia, and President Ahmed al-Sharaa has met with Putin twice in Moscow since assuming office. During his most recent visit in January, Putin acknowledged significant progress in restoring interstate relations, praising Sharaa for his efforts in restoring Syria's territorial integrity.

Despite this, Damascus has persistently demanded the extradition of Assad, who is currently residing in Russia with his wife following his ouster. Earlier this year, Russia withdrew its forces from Qamishli airport in Syria's northeast.