Syria and Russia Agree on Future of Russian Military Bases
Summary
Syria has agreed on the future of Russia’s Hmeimim air base and Tartus naval base under a new arrangement that would convert them into a joint training and capacity-building center. Syrian authorities are also taking control of Latakia International Airport as Damascus and Moscow work to reset ties after Bashar al-Assad’s ouster.
Key Points
- Syria and Russia have agreed to convert the Hmeimim air base and Tartus naval base into a joint training and capacity-building center under a new arrangement.
- The civilian facilities at both bases will be handed over to Damascus while the bases remain operational during the transition period.
- Syrian Civil Aviation Authority is taking control of Latakia International Airport and evaluating it for redevelopment.
- The agreement comes as President Vladimir Putin seeks to preserve Russia’s military foothold in Syria after Bashar al-Assad’s ouster.
