Russia secures rebel deal to keep key bases in Syria

Russia believes it has an informal agreement with the rebels from the Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) group, allowing it to keep military bases, according to Bloomberg. Russian forces have been stationed for years at the bases in Hmeimim and Tartus due to support given to Bashar al-Assad's regime.

Although Russia actively participated in the fight against HTS and other rebel groups, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov said Russia hopes to maintain the bases to continue "fighting international terrorism". He emphasized that a decision on the future of Russian troops in Syria has not yet been made.

The naval base in Tartus and the airbase in Hmeimim, located in the Latakia province, are crucial for Russian interests. Tartus is the only Russian port on the Mediterranean Sea, supporting operations in Africa.

HTS, originating from the Syrian branch of al-Qaeda, is recognized as a terrorist organization by the UN and the USA. However, the Biden administration is considering changing this classification if the new Syrian authorities fulfill promises regarding the protection of minorities. A change is also evident in Moscow, as Russian media and officials have stopped referring to HTS as terrorists after Assad's fall.

Pentagon deputy spokeswoman Sabrina Singh notes that Russia is consolidating its forces in Syria, but there are no signs of their withdrawal. Russia still maintains its bases, which are strategically important for its presence in the region.