Russia is reportedly close to securing a deal with the new Syrian leadership that would secure the future of its military bases in the country.
Under the deal, Russia would keep its naval port in Tartus and air base in Hmeimim.
Russia’s defence ministry said it had a tacit understanding with Hayat Tahrir Al-Sham (HTS), the rebel group that spearheaded the collapse of the Assad regime on Sunday and is leading efforts to set up a transitional government.
However, satellite images show the base appeared to have been abandoned. Five warships, including three frigates and at least one submarine, were photographed in the port last week but had left by Monday.
Russia has had a naval base at Tartus since 1971, with the facility being expanded in 2012 as Moscow began to increase its support for the Assad regime.
It is Russia’s only “replenishment and repair point” in the Mediterranean and has become a key staging post for its operations in Africa.
Under the deal, Russia would keep its naval port in Tartus and air base in Hmeimim.
Russia’s defence ministry said it had a tacit understanding with Hayat Tahrir Al-Sham (HTS), the rebel group that spearheaded the collapse of the Assad regime on Sunday and is leading efforts to set up a transitional government.
However, satellite images show the base appeared to have been abandoned. Five warships, including three frigates and at least one submarine, were photographed in the port last week but had left by Monday.
Russia has had a naval base at Tartus since 1971, with the facility being expanded in 2012 as Moscow began to increase its support for the Assad regime.
It is Russia’s only “replenishment and repair point” in the Mediterranean and has become a key staging post for its operations in Africa.
13 days ago
