Syria reclaims control of key coastal sites in deal with Russia

Syria has regained control of crucial coastal sites following an agreement with Russia, according to a statement from the Syrian foreign ministry on August 9, 2026. The deal marks the conclusion of a year and a half of negotiations and discussions led by the ministry.

Under the terms of the memorandum of understanding, Damascus will assume management of civilian facilities at Hmeimim airbase and Tartus naval facility. This transition includes converting the military sites into joint training and qualification centers, aimed at preserving the interests of both countries. The process is expected to be completed within three months.

Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani and his delegation toured Latakia International Airport and Tartus port on Sunday to inspect the facilities covered by the historic agreement. The deal represents a significant shift in Syrian-Russian relations, coming after Assad's fall in December 2024.

Russia had been a key international supporter of Assad, providing military backing through Tartus and Hmeimim, which became central to Moscow's military presence in Syria. The agreement allows Russia to maintain a presence in the region but with a reduced footprint, reflecting the changing dynamics of the relationship.

This development follows several recent moves by Damascus, including a $800 million, 30-year concession for Tartus' main commercial port to Dubai's DP World and a renegotiation of CMA CGM's contract for Latakia's container terminal. These actions underscore Syria's efforts to assert control over its Mediterranean coastline and pursue closer ties with global partners.