Syria Takes Control of Russian Military Bases, Reducing Moscow's Presence

Syria has announced an agreement to assume control over two key Russian military bases: the Khmeimim Air Base and the naval base in Tartus. This move significantly reduces Russia's military footprint in the country and marks a major shift in Damascus-Moscow relations. According to the Syrian Foreign Ministry, the deal aims to reorganize Moscow's presence and transfer control of transportation and logistics facilities at these Mediterranean coastal sites to Syrian civilian authorities. After a three-month transition period, the Russian military facilities will be converted into joint training and certification centers.

The agreement, reached after 18 months of negotiations, is described as opening a new phase in bilateral relations and ensuring the interests of both nations. Syrian state media released footage of Foreign Minister Assad al-Shibani inspecting Latakia Airport and Tartus port, with the Syrian General Authority for Borders and Customs confirming that commercial sites within Tartus port, previously operated by Russia, will now be under Syrian control. The Syrian Civil Aviation Authority also announced it has taken over management of Latakia Airport, planning restoration and upgrades.

Russia has not yet responded publicly to Syria's announcement. Moscow had been a key ally of the Assad regime since the 2011 uprising, providing political, economic, and military support, including direct military intervention from 2015. However, Russia's influence in Syria has waned since its 2022 invasion of Ukraine. When the rebel group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, led by Ahmad al-Shara, launched an offensive that eventually toppled Assad's control in parts of Syria, Russia limited its involvement to a few airstrikes.

The evolving relationship was highlighted by al-Shara's visit to the Kremlin in October and a January meeting where Putin expressed support for Syria regaining control over the northeast, previously held by Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces. Russia also began withdrawing troops from Qamishli near the local airport. Putin pledged assistance in rebuilding war-damaged areas and reviving Syria's economy. Despite these changes, Syria remains heavily dependent on Russian oil, though recent reports indicate Damascus is willing to reduce Russian oil imports amid ongoing talks to lift sanctions.

This development reflects Syria's gradual pivot towards the United States and a recalibration of its ties with Russia, as Moscow seeks to maintain a foothold in the region while scaling back its direct military engagement.