Russia Negotiates to Maintain Military Presence in Syria Amid Political Shifts

 Russia is in discussions with Syria's new authorities about the continued operation of its military bases in Tartus and Khmeimim, according to reports from TASS news agency. These talks follow significant political upheaval in Syria, as jihadist groups, including Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), seized power last weekend.

Sources familiar with the negotiations indicated that Moscow and the new Syrian leadership are working to ensure Russia’s military presence remains intact, maintaining its previous status in the region. "The Russian side has secured temporary security guarantees, allowing the military bases to operate as usual," a source reportedly told TASS.

On December 9, TASS reported that armed groups opposing former President Bashar al-Assad had taken full control of the provinces where Russia's key military bases are located. However, these forces have yet to enter the bases themselves. The situation has rapidly deteriorated in recent weeks as HTS militants launched an offensive, overtaking major cities, including Damascus, and forcing Assad to flee the country. The embattled president has since been granted asylum in Russia.

Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov confirmed that Moscow has engaged in discussions with the HTS political committee on various matters, including the security of Russian diplomats and citizens in Syria.

In 2017, Russia and Syria signed an agreement to extend Russia’s military presence at the Tartus and Khmeimim bases for an additional 49 years. The recent developments, however, underscore the shifting political landscape in Syria and the growing complexity of Moscow's strategic interests in the region.