Moscow, Damascus in talks over fate of Russian military bases in Syria

Russia and Syria continue to engage in discussions regarding the status of Russian military bases in the country, Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Vershinin confirmed.

The diplomat noted that traditionally strong and friendly ties exist between the Russian and Syrian peoples. Vershinin emphasised that this refers specifically to the Syrian people, not to any particular "regimes," Caliber.Az reports, citing Russian media.

"We are continuing these contacts in order to reach a solution that would serve the interests of Russia, Damascus, and regional stability," the deputy foreign minister added.

Russia has maintained a significant military presence in Syria since its intervention in 2015, primarily through the Khmeimim Air Base near Latakia and the Tartus Naval Base on the Mediterranean coast. These bases, established under agreements with the former Assad regime, have been critical for Russia’s power projection in the Middle East and Africa, serving as logistical hubs for operations in Libya and the Sahel, and ensuring access to the Eastern Mediterranean. The Tartus base, Russia’s only Mediterranean repair and resupply hub, and Khmeimim, a key staging post, are vital to Moscow’s global military strategy.

Following the collapse of Bashar al-Assad’s regime on December 8, 2024, and the rise of the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS)-led interim government, the future of these bases has been uncertain.

In 2025, Russia actively pursued diplomatic efforts to retain its military presence in Syria, despite the changed political landscape.

By Khagan Isayev