- Russia will relinquish control of its strategically vital Hmeimem air base and Tartus naval base in Syria, transforming them into joint Syrian-Russian training centres.
- This development marks a significant recalibration of Moscow's military footprint in the eastern Mediterranean, following negotiations that have spanned approximately 18 months.
- The agreement follows the ousting of Bashar al-Assad in December 2024 by Isis-affiliated insurgents led by Ahmad al-Sharaa, with Assad subsequently granted asylum in Russia.
- Syria's foreign ministry confirmed that Syria will assume control of the Hmeimem base and the commercial berth at Tartus port, integrating them into its civil administration.
- While maintaining robust bilateral ties with Moscow, Syria's new leadership has also moved to strengthen relationships with the US, Europe, and neighbouring Arab countries, leading to the lifting of sanctions and re-establishment of diplomatic ties.
IN FULL
Russia to hand over control of two key Mediterranean bases to Syria
