Russia is working to secure its military bases in Syria amidst new political shifts, aiming to enhance its economic footprint following the rise of former rebels in power. Despite previous support for Assad, Moscow is leveraging the U.S. allies’ cautious approach to assert its presence, including financial support to Syria’s central bank. The negotiations encompass military and economic agreements, reflecting Russia’s strategic interests in a region increasingly influenced by its rivals.
Russia is actively pursuing a deal to maintain its military bases in Syria amidst changing political dynamics. Following the rise of the Syrian rebels, once labeled terrorists by Russia, Moscow sees an opportunity to boost its economic ties and solidify its military presence in the region.
This shift is notable considering President Vladimir Putin’s critical role in supporting Bashar al-Assad during the civil war. The Russian military bases established along Syria’s coast have allowed it to increase its influence in the Mediterranean while targeting opposition forces, such as Hayat Tahrir al-Sham. Subsequently, Assad sought asylum in Moscow after fleeing the country.
With the uncertainty surrounding U.S. policy in the Middle East, particularly amidst allies’ hesitancy, Russia is poised to enhance its engagement in Syria. Recently, Russia intervened by delivering approximately $23 million in Syrian currency to Damascus, an initiative shunned by other nations due to concerns over sanctions.
Saudi Arabia and Qatar have withheld financial support for the new Syrian administration, awaiting direction from Washington regarding potential sanctions against the new militant government. Russia, unaffected by similar sanctions, has seized the moment to deepen its involvement in Syria.
According to Anna Borshchevskaya of the Washington Institute, “Russia’s advantage in negotiating with Syria is that it is not hindered by any ethical concerns dealing with Syria and can implement decisions without needing consensus.” This positions Moscow favorably as it seeks to secure access to Syria’s military bases amid its own challenges in Ukraine.
Russia’s negotiations with Syria are extensive, involving discussions on extensive financial investments, development of gas fields, and ports, as well as an apology for civilian casualties during its military operations. However, Moscow has rebuffed requests for the extradition of Assad, highlighting their unwillingness to sever ties with the former leader, according to reports from Syrian and European officials.
In contrast, the United States is yet to formulate a strategy regarding the new Syrian government, complicating efforts to counteract Russian influence. David Schenker, a former U.S. diplomat, stated that the “U.S.’s lack of engagement in Syria makes it difficult to oppose a Russian return.”
A renewed partnership between Russia and Syria could revitalize their long-standing relationship, where Syria historically remained a loyal ally, benefiting from significant Russian investments, including oil extraction and natural gas processing.
These discussions initiated earlier this year involve pivotal negotiations focused on the future of Russia’s military bases in Syria, expanding to encompass economic treaties. After an initial conversation between Putin and the newly appointed Syrian leader Ahmed al-Sharaa, Russian engagement in Syria intensified, including the transfer of financial resources to bolster the country’s economy.
Syria’s government appears keen to diversify its allegiance beyond Turkey, which has supported opposing forces to Assad. The negotiations have also allowed Syrian officials to address concerns regarding compensation for damages inflicted during Russian military actions supporting Assad.
Syrian negotiators have highlighted the necessity of recovering funds previously transferred to Russia by Assad’s regime, approximately amounting to $250 million, alongside substantial investments made by Assad’s family in Russian real estate. Following Putin’s invitation for diplomatic engagement, conversations about pre-existing contracts between Russia and Syria were also slated for discussion.
These contracts involve recommencing construction on the Tartus port and developing natural gas reserves—an effort to revive Russia’s substantial economic interests in Syria. Moscow’s former discontent with Assad seems to have shifted in light of new ambitions, as opportunities for influence in the region appear more favorable.
With limited alternatives for influence elsewhere, such as stalled initiatives in Libya, Russia’s renewed dialogue with Syria presents an advantageous position that could challenge Turkey and Iran’s dominance within the region. As one Syrian official remarked, despite Russia’s historical actions, the Syrian government is optimistic about opening a new chapter in relations with Moscow.
In summation, Russia’s initiative to secure its military presence in Syria amid shifting political dynamics reveals a strategic pivot. By fortifying economic and military ties with the new Syrian leadership, Russia seeks to capitalize on uncertainties surrounding U.S. policy. The engagement underscores Russia’s persistent ambition to expand its influence and reflects the complexities of regional alliances involving new leadership dynamics, particularly concerning Turkish and Iranian roles.
Original Source: www.livemint.com
