Syria and Russia save face with deal on military bases

A groundbreaking agreement made between Syria and Russia aims to preserve both nations' reputations following Russia's long-standing military presence in Syria. As Syria attempts to strengthen its ties with the United States, the deal addresses the loss of influence experienced by Russia and Iran when the Assad regime fell to militant groups led by President Assad.

Russia retained an air and naval base along Syria's coast, along with 1,000 soldiers, but the new bilateral deal stipulates that these facilities will become joint training centers within three months. Syrian authorities will oversee coastal infrastructure previously controlled by Russia, including an airport in Latakia and a commercial pier in Tartus.

Despite the Russian military presence diminishing, it will still maintain some logistical and commercial interests, particularly in Tartus. The deal, announced by Damascus on Sunday, aims to restore "Syria's sovereign rights" and economic interests while ensuring minimal compromise for Russia. The creation of alternative routes for Gulf oil and other goods has pressured Moscow to make compromises in Syria, with economic incentives such as an upgraded oil pipeline from Iraq to Syria playing a role.

The deal has also been influenced by Turkey and the United States, as they devise new strategies to bypass the Strait of Hormuz. Syrian Foreign Minister Assad Al Shibani has been engaged in negotiations with Russia, while Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE have proposed land-based alternatives to redirect traffic. Syrian authorities did not disclose the fate of the 1,000 Russian troops on the coast or any restrictions on their naval movement into or out of Tartus.

However, the administration of Latakia Airport will be transferred to Syria's General Authority of Civil Aviation, potentially boosting Syria's image in Washington and facilitating the removal of US sanctions.