Russia, Syria in talks to expand role of military bases
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Moscow and Damascus are reassessing the scope and purpose of Russia’s military footprint in Syria, with humanitarian functions and civilian safety now part of the equation.
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In this photo taken from the Russian Defense Ministry’s official website on October 6, 2015, a Russian SU-34 bomber lands at an airbase in Hmeimim in Syria. (AP)
Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Vershinin said on Thursday that negotiations with Damascus over the future of Russia’s military installations in Syria remain active, as both governments work to redefine the terms of Moscow’s presence on Syrian soil.
Vershinin characterized Russia’s bases as a “stabilizing factor in the region” and indicated that they “may also serve a humanitarian role in Syria.” He added that a key objective of the ongoing discussions is to “ensure the safety of our citizens.”
The talks come as Syria’s new interim government seeks to revisit long-standing arrangements. Interim President Ahmad al‑Sharaa is reportedly requesting financial compensation and updated guarantees from Russia in exchange for continued access to its key military hubs: the naval facility at Tartus and the Hmeimim air base.
Earlier this month, Vershinin said that Russia and Syria remain in dialogue regarding the continued presence of Russian military bases in Syria.
At the time, Vershinin told RIA Novosti that discussions are ongoing between Moscow and Damascus, emphasizing the longstanding relationship between the Russian Federation and the Syrian people.
"I can confirm that our contacts with Damascus on all matters are indeed ongoing. We have traditionally long-standing friendly relations with the Syrian people. I emphasize 'with the Syrian people' because there is no need to speak about regimes in this case. We are maintaining these contacts to find a solution that would serve the interests of Russia, the interests of Damascus, and the interests of regional stability," Vershinin said.
Wider context
In January, President Vladimir Putin reaffirmed Russia’s commitment to support the Syrian people. He reiterated Moscow's intention to maintain strategic ties and contribute to regional stability amid the evolving political landscape in Syria. Other Russian officials resumed discussions on Russian military installations in Syria.
The talks come in the wake of major political changes in Syria. On December 8, 2024, armed forces captured Damascus, leading to the departure of Bashar al-Assad. In January, Ahmad al-Sharaa, the leader of Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham, the largest of the armed groups, was officially declared transitional president, and a new Syrian cabinet was formed in March.
