Syria and Russia Sign Memorandum on Future of Tartous and Hmeimim Bases

Reuters

Russian aircraft, helicopters and military equipment at Khmeimim airbase, near Latakia, Syria.

Syria and Russia have signed a memorandum of understanding outlining the future of Russia's military presence at the Tartous naval facility and Hmeimim air base, following 18 months of intensive negotiations, Syria's Foreign Ministry announced on Sunday, according to Syria's state news agency.

According to the ministry, the agreement provides for the Syrian government to assume control of civilian facilities, including Hmeimim Airport and the commercial section of Tartous Port. These facilities will be gradually integrated into Syria's civilian administration.

Under the new arrangements, military installations at both sites will be converted into joint training and military qualification centres, with the transition expected to be completed within three months. Syrian officials said the agreement is designed to safeguard the interests of both countries while redefining Russia's military role in the country.

The Tartous naval base and Hmeimim air base have long served as Russia's principal military footholds in the Mediterranean and the Middle East. Their future has been under discussion since the overthrow of former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad in December 2024 and the establishment of Syria's new leadership.

In a separate statement, Syria's General Authority for Ports and Customs confirmed that Damascus would assume control of the commercial facilities at Tartous Port previously operated by Russia, including Pier No. 4, its warehouses and associated infrastructure.

Last month, Reuters reported that Moscow had been seeking to establish a commercial logistics hub at Pier No. 4, an area located outside the naval base. At the time, both sides stated that any logistics hub would remain under Syrian sovereignty, with all activities subject to the approval and oversight of Syria's General Authority for Ports and Customs.



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