Syria and Russia reach agreement on the future of military bases in Tartus and Khmeimim

The de facto government in Damascus announced an agreement with Moscow to restructure Russian military presence in Syria. Following 18 months of negotiations, the facilities at the Tartus port and the Khmeimim airbase will be converted into joint training centers. This transition marks a significant shift in the strategic partnership that was previously centered on direct military support for the former Syrian president, Bashar al-Assad, until his removal in late 2024.

Under the terms of the memorandum of understanding, Syrian authorities will assume management of civilian infrastructure at these sites, including the commercial docks at Tartus and parts of the Khmeimim airport, as they are integrated into the national civilian administration. While the Russian Foreign Ministry stated the deal will strengthen ties between the two nations, a Syrian source confirmed that some Russian military forces will remain in the country. The transition process is expected to be completed within a maximum timeframe of three months.