Russia's Foreign Ministry discloses ongoing negotiations regarding Russian military installations in Syria, with continuous communication with Damascus.
In the aftermath of the change of power in Syria, the status of Russian military bases in the country remains uncertain and is subject to ongoing negotiations between Moscow and the new Syrian authorities. The fall of Bashar al-Assad's regime in December 2024 has brought about a shift in the political landscape, and Russia, which maintains two key military facilities in Syria - the Khmeimim Air Base near Latakia and the Tartus Naval Base on the Mediterranean coast - is seeking to retain its military foothold.
Since the rise of the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS)-led interim government, Russia has been actively pursuing diplomatic efforts to maintain its military presence and regional influence. Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Vershinin confirmed the continuation of talks aimed at reaching an arrangement beneficial to Russia, Syria, and regional stability. However, the new Syrian authorities have shown increased assertiveness in renegotiating terms, seeking financial and political concessions.
The Syrian government appears pragmatic and cautious in its approach, avoiding abrupt termination but leveraging its position to extract concessions from Moscow. There have been increased tensions, marked by tighter Syrian security controls over Russian military personnel, and attacks on Russian bases such as the fatal May assault on Khmeimim. The future of these bases is unclear, with speculation that Syria might use them as bargaining chips in broader regional power dynamics.
As of mid-2025, the Russian bases remain operational but under negotiation and increased Syrian control. Diplomats are trying to resolve the issue in a way that meets the interests of Russia, Damascus, and regional stability. The new Syrian government has not made a decision favorable to Russia regarding the military bases, and the parties involved are aiming for a solution that promotes regional stability.
References: [1] RIA News, 2025 [2] BBC News, 2025 [3] The Guardian, 2025 [4] The New York Times, 2025
- Amidst ongoing negotiations between Moscow and the new Syrian authorities, the Syrian government's increased assertiveness in renegotiating terms for the Russian military bases suggests a potential shift in the politics of war-and-conflicts in the region.
- The continued operation of Russian military bases in Syria, under increased Syrian control and ongoing negotiation, signifies a vital part of both general-news and Russian foreign policy, as Russia seeks to retain its military foothold and regional influence.
