Russian military bases in Syria remain fully operational and contribute positively to regional stability, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Vershinin said on Wednesday.

Speaking to RTVI, Vershinin emphasized that the Russian presence in Syria, including its military component, plays a “stabilizing role regarding the situation in Syria and beyond, in the region as a whole.” He also noted that the bases could continue to serve as channels for delivering humanitarian aid to the country.

The comments follow statements in mid-October by Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani, who said that the status of Russian military installations in Syria was being discussed in ongoing negotiations between Damascus and Moscow.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov confirmed that the matter had been included on the agenda during talks between President Vladimir Putin and Syrian leader Ahmad al-Sharaa.

Syria’s transitional Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani said on October 18 that Damascus is in talks with Moscow to review existing bilateral agreements, with no new accords finalized, and confirmed that the discussions include the status of Russian military bases, which have been central to Moscow’s influence in the region since 2015.

Russia’s military presence in Syria began in earnest in 2015 after a formal request from Damascus for assistance in fighting terrorism. The deployment marked Moscow’s most significant military intervention in the Middle East since the Soviet era, solidifying long-standing ties with Syria and expanding Russian influence in the region.

Russia's military foothold in Syria

The centerpiece of Russia’s military presence is the Hmeimim Air Base in Lattakia Governorate, serving as the main operational hub for Russian air operations, housing fighter jets, surveillance aircraft, and advanced air defense systems. The base has been key in launching airstrikes against armed groups across Syria.

Another vital facility is the Tartous naval base on the Mediterranean coast. This base, in use since the 1970s, provides Russia with its only naval foothold in the Mediterranean and enables logistical support, repairs, and resupply for Russian warships operating in the region.

Together, Hmeimim and Tartous form the backbone of Russia’s projection of power in Syria. They allow Moscow to conduct surveillance, enforce air superiority, and support ground operations alongside Syrian government forces. These bases also deter foreign military intervention in the country.

Beyond military operations, Russian bases have supported humanitarian missions, including aid distribution and medical outreach. Moscow frames its presence as stabilizing, claiming it helps prevent the resurgence of extremist groups and supports Syria’s sovereignty amid ongoing foreign pressures.