Hmeimim Update: Recent Syrian-Russian Changes
The article discusses the shift in the relationship between Syria and Russia, highlighting new developments during Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad Shibly's visit to the Hmeimim base and Tartus port. These scenes reflect Damascus reclaiming initiative and directly managing its facilities without clear Russian interference, contrasting with the 2017 situation when Russian influence was strong, led by an officer restricting Bashar Assad's movements. The new understandings between the two countries, reached after 18 months of negotiations, involve reconfiguring the presence of Russian forces in Syria, transforming bases and facilities into joint training centers, and transferring the management of sites like Hmeimim Airbase and Tartus port to civilian authorities within no more than three months. These developments indicate a change in the level of Syrian control and independence over their facilities, part of a broad deal aimed at reshaping the Russian military presence and enhancing Syrian sovereignty. Expectations include a renewed Russian role in supporting the Syrian army and the future of the toppled regime’s leaders.
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