Syria, Russia reach deal on future of Tartous, Hmeimim bases after 18 months of talks

Syria and Russia have reached a memorandum of understanding regarding the future of Russian military bases at Tartous and Hmeimim after 18 months of negotiations. The agreement, announced by the Syrian foreign ministry on Sunday, stipulates that Syria will assume management of civilian facilities, including Hmeimim airport and the commercial berth at Tartous port, integrating them into its civilian administration. Military facilities will be transformed into joint training and qualification centers, with the transition expected to conclude within three months. This arrangement aims to preserve the interests of both nations, following the ousting of former President Bashar al-Assad in December 2024, which initiated discussions on the future of these key Russian military footholds in the Mediterranean and Middle East.