Russia Negotiates with Syrian Leadership to Maintain Military Presence
In an interview with a TV channel in Moscow, Lavrov said that Syrians are “keen” for Russia’s presence to continue.
“As for our military facilities, discussions are ongoing. Let me reiterate -- the Syrians are keen for our presence to endure. These sites, while no longer purely military in function as they were prior to December 2025, remain well-suited for repurposing as humanitarian hubs,” he said.
Lavrov emphasized that Russia’s relations with Syria have been guided by principles of mutual respect and benefit since the Arab state’s modern establishment. He cited the recent visits of Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa to Moscow twice in under four months, as well as multiple meetings between Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al Shaibani and Russian officials, as evidence of the strong ties between the two nations.
The Russian diplomat noted that Moscow’s bases at Khmeimim and Tartus act as a “stabilizing counterweight to other players” in the region. He cited Israel’s growing influence in southern Syria through engagement with the Druze community, which has historical grievances against Damascus.
Lavrov also commented on the U.S. approach in northeast Syria, suggesting Washington appears to be planning a withdrawal. He urged the U.S. to manage any departure “in a way that does not generate new threats,” warning that ISIS (Daesh) camps left unchecked in the area allowed up to 10,000 detained militants to disperse into Iraq and beyond, potentially fueling further regional instability.
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