Syria and Russia Agree to Reorganize Russian Military Presence at Hmeimim and Tartus Bases

Syria and Russia have reached a historic memorandum of understanding to reorganize the Russian military presence at the Hmeimim airbase and Tartus naval base. Under the agreement, which concludes 18 months of negotiations, the two strategic Mediterranean outposts will be converted into joint training and capacity-building centers. Syria will assume control of civilian facilities, including Latakia International Airport (Hmeimim) and the commercial Berth No. 4 at Tartus port, integrating them into its civilian administration. The transition is slated for completion within a maximum of three months. This deal marks a significant shift in bilateral relations following the December 2024 ouster of former President Bashar al-Assad, whose regime was heavily supported by Moscow.

// Background

Russia has maintained a military presence in Tartus since 1971 and expanded its footprint in 2015 by converting Hmeimim into a major military airbase to support Bashar al-Assad's regime during the Syrian civil war. In 2016 and 2017, Assad granted Russia long-term, rent-free leases for both bases. Following Assad's ouster in December 2024 by forces led by Ahmed al-Sharaa, the new Syrian government sought to renegotiate these agreements to reclaim civilian assets while managing diplomatic relations with Moscow, which currently shelters Assad.

// Key Developments

• Hmeimim airbase and Tartus naval base will be transformed into joint training and capacity-building centers.
• Syria will take back control of civilian facilities, including Hmeimim Airport and the fourth commercial berth at Tartus port.
• The transition process is bound by a strict three-month time limit.
• The agreement follows 18 months of negotiations between Moscow and the new Syrian administration led by President Ahmed al-Sharaa.
• Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani inspected the facilities on August 9, 2026, following the announcement.