Syria and Russia have reached a memorandum of understanding on the future of Russia’s military facilities at Tartous and Hmeimim after 18 months of negotiations, Syria’s Foreign Ministry said on Sunday.
Under the agreement, Syria will take over the management of civilian facilities, including Hmeimim Airport and commercial facilities at Tartous port, gradually integrating them into the country’s civilian administration.
Russia’s military facilities will be repurposed as joint training and qualification centres under new arrangements designed to protect the interests of both countries. The transition is expected to be completed within three months.
Russia’s naval facility at Tartous and Hmeimim air base have served as Moscow’s main military footholds in the Mediterranean and Middle East. Their future has been uncertain since former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad was ousted in December 2024.
Syria will also take control of commercial sites previously operated by Russia at Tartous port, including Pier No. 4 and associated warehouses and facilities.
The agreement marks a significant change in Russia’s military presence in Syria while allowing both countries to maintain cooperation through joint training arrangements.
Leave a comment