Syria and Russia reach agreement on Tartus and Hmeimim bases

Syria and Russia have reached a memorandum of understanding regarding the future of Russia’s access to the strategic Tartus naval base and Hmeimim air base. Following 18 months of negotiations, the agreement shifts the management of certain facilities toward Syrian state control.

Under the new terms, civilian facilities—including Hmeimim Airport and the fourth commercial quay at Tartus Port—will gradually transition to civilian administration to increase operational capacity and cargo handling efficiency. Military facilities at the site are scheduled to become training centers following a three-month transitional period.

While Russian troops will maintain conditional access, the agreement marks a shift from previous arrangements where Moscow held significant control and legal immunity for its personnel. Moving forward, Russian forces in Syria will operate under terms established by Damascus.