Syria, Russia Agree to Convert Two Bases Into Joint Training Centers

Syria said it reached a memorandum of understanding with Russia to reorganize Moscow's presence at Hmeimim and Tartus after 18 months of negotiations. Damascus will assume control of civilian facilities, including Hmeimim airport and Tartus port's fourth commercial berth, for gradual integration into civilian administration. The military sites will become joint training and qualification centers under new arrangements intended to preserve both countries' interests. Syria's Foreign Ministry said the transition must be completed within three months, replacing the bases' previous military role with the new framework.