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Syria and Russia Reach Deal on Future of Tartus and Khmeimim Bases After 18 Months of Talks
The Moscow Times • • world
Key Points:
- Syria and Russia have signed a memorandum of understanding to determine the future status of Russian military bases at Tartus and Khmeimim after 18 months of negotiations.
- Under the agreement, Syria will assume control of civilian facilities such as Khmeimim airport and the commercial berth at Tartus port, integrating them into the country's civilian administration within three months.
- Military facilities will be converted into joint training and qualification centers, maintaining the interests of both Syria and Russia under new arrangements.
- Tartus and Khmeimim have been key Russian military footholds in the Mediterranean and Middle East, with their status negotiated since the ousting of former President Bashar al-Assad in December 2024.
- Syria's General Authority for Ports and Customs will manage the commercial areas at Tartus port previously operated by Russia, including Pier No. 4, which Russia had planned to develop into a commercial logistics hub under Syrian oversight.
