Russia Pursues Deal to Retain Military Bases and Boost Economic Ties in Syria

Russia is negotiating to maintain its military bases and expand its economic influence in Syria following the rise of Syrian rebels. Despite previous tensions, Moscow is seizing the moment amid stalled support from the U.S. and its allies. Recent cash injections and broader economic discussions indicate a renewed partnership, allowing Syria to potentially lessen reliance on Turkey and Iran while reinforcing Russia’s strategic presence in the region.

Russia is actively negotiating terms to secure its military presence in Syria, aiming to expand its economic influence following the ascendance of Syrian rebels. In a shift from their previous denouncements of these groups as terrorists, Moscow recognizes a new opportunity to solidify its logistical and military foothold in the region. Vladimir Putin played a crucial role in supporting President Bashar al-Assad throughout the civil conflict, establishing military bases that enhance Russian power projection across the Mediterranean and into Africa.

With U.S. allies in the Middle East uncertain about the Trump administration’s policy towards Syria, financial support for the new government has stalled. This situation presents Russia with a chance to reinforce its presence and potentially increase it. Recently, Russia injected approximately $23 million into the Syrian central bank to alleviate the economic strain, a move significant as other nations hesitate to engage due to sanctions fears.

The cash support from Russia arrives as Qatar and Saudi Arabia delay their promised financial assistance, pending clarity on U.S. sanctions concerning the governing authority. Russia’s willingness to provide this support, despite its own sanctions due to the conflict in Ukraine, compounds its advantage in negotiating with Syria. Analysts underscore that Russia operates without the ethical constraints that other nations may face, capitalizing on the West’s indecisiveness.

The unequivocal goal for Moscow is to maintain its strategic military bases in Syria, especially at a time when its endeavors in Ukraine are faltering. Ongoing negotiations cover extensive topics including potential investments in energy projects, infrastructure developments, and even discussions around the controversial extradition of Assad, though this last point seemingly remains off the table for Russia.

While the Trump administration has not developed a comprehensive strategy for engaging with the new regime, Russia’s deep historical ties with Syria present an avenue for significant cooperation. Under Assad, Syria served as a loyal ally, providing Russia with considerable economic opportunities that included investments in oil and gas extraction and processing.

Key discussions began with high-level Russian diplomats visiting Syria to address the future of military installations and subsequently broadened the scope of negotiations to cover extensive economic agreements. The initial steps appear promising following a direct conversation between President Putin and the newly appointed Syrian leader, Ahmed al-Sharaa, indicating mutual interest in advancing bilateral trade and economic relations.

Syria’s leadership seeks to diversify its alliances beyond Turkey, which had previously supported rebel factions. Negotiations also reflect Syria’s demand for reparations for damages incurred during Russian air support of the Assad regime while also requesting the repatriation of funds previously transferred to Moscow under the Assad administration.

Amid failures with other international ventures, Russia is poised to recapture its economic ambitions in Syria. Recent financial infusions and agreements signify a revitalized partnership between the two nations, which may help Syria counter the influences of Turkey and Iran in its quest for regional stability.

Despite the controversies surrounding Russia’s military actions in Syria, officials indicate a willingness from the Syrian side to turn the page. The ongoing dialogue holds potential for a new chapter in Russian-Syrian relations, anticipating further developments to restore economic ties and military collaboration.

In summary, Russia’s efforts to secure its military bases and expand its economic influence in Syria have gained momentum after the rise of the new Syrian government. With Western nations hesitating to provide support, Russia is filling the gap by injecting funds into the Syrian economy and negotiating broader agreements. This resurgence of Russian-Syrian relations may allow Syria to diversify its partnerships and mitigate the influence of regional powers such as Turkey and Iran, presenting opportunities for both nations in the evolving geopolitical landscape.

Original Source: www.livemint.com