MOSCOW, Dec 10 (Alliance News): The Kremlin stated on Monday that it is too early to determine the future of Russia’s military bases in Syria and that discussions with the new authorities in Damascus are needed.
Following a rapid advance by a militia coalition led by Hayat al-Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), a former al-Qaeda affiliate, President Bashar al-Assad fled to Russia.
This situation has raised questions about the status of two key Russian military facilities in Syria.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said it was premature to make any predictions regarding the bases.
“This is all a subject for discussion with those who will be in power in Syria,” Peskov added, noting that there is “extreme instability” in the country. He assured that measures are being taken to ensure security, and Russian military personnel are exercising all necessary precautions.
Russia’s Hmeimim airbase in Latakia province and the naval facility at Tartous are critical to Moscow’s military strategy.
The Tartous base serves as Russia’s sole Mediterranean repair and replenishment hub and has been used to facilitate military operations, including the movement of contractors to Africa.
Peskov confirmed that Assad has been granted asylum in Russia, a decision made by President Vladimir Putin. However, there is no official plan for a meeting between Putin and Assad at the moment.
Addressing broader international concerns, Peskov described the global situation as unstable and marked by rising conflict potential. He highlighted developments in Ukraine and tensions in the Middle East as part of this turbulent landscape.
President-elect Donald Trump recently called for an immediate ceasefire and negotiations between Ukraine and Russia to end “the madness.” Peskov mentioned that Russia is open to talks, but they must be based on agreements reached in Istanbul in 2022 and reflect current battlefield realities, where Russian forces are advancing rapidly.
Putin has insisted that Ukraine must not join NATO and that Russia retain control over four Ukrainian regions currently occupied by its troops for a peace agreement to be feasible.
Peskov also noted that there have been no communications with Trump or his team thus far.
