Syria and Russia agree on future of two Mediterranean military bases

Syria and Russia have finalized an agreement concerning the future of two key military bases on Syria's Mediterranean coast, signaling a significant shift in their long-standing military cooperation. The deal, announced by the Syrian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, will see Syria resume control over the Hmeimim air base near Latakia and the commercial section of the Tartus port.

These bases have served as crucial Russian strongholds in the Eastern Mediterranean since the Syrian civil war began in 2011, with Russia acting as President Bashar al-Assad's primary political and military ally. The new arrangement designates the military facilities at both locations as "joint centers for training and qualification," according to the ministry.

This agreement represents a "reorganization of the Russian presence" along the Syrian coast and marks the most substantial development since negotiations commenced approximately 18 months ago. It paves the way for a new phase in Syrian-Russian relations, emphasizing a collaborative approach to military training and readiness.

The Syrian government, under President Ahmed el Shara, has sought to maintain robust bilateral ties with Moscow. El Shara has visited Russian President Vladimir Putin twice since assuming power, underscoring the continued strategic importance of their relationship.

“

This move represents the most significant shift since the beginning of negotiations approximately a year and a half ago, opening the way for a new phase in Syrian-Russian relations.