Moscow Nears Agreement with Damascus on Retaining Staff and Equipment in Syria
Moscow is reportedly close to sealing a deal with Damascus that would permit it to maintain some personnel and equipment in Syria, according to sources cited by the American news agency Bloomberg on Monday. This agreement underscores the deepening strategic ties between Russia and Syria amidst the complex regional dynamics.
Last Wednesday, Syrian Interim President Ahmed Al-Sharaa received a phone call from his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin. During this conversation, they discussed various issues related to practical cooperation in trade, economic, educational, and other fields, highlighting the multifaceted nature of their partnership.
Bloomberg further reported that Russia hopes to keep its naval and air bases in Syria, which it had used even before the fall of Assad. These bases are pivotal for Russia’s strategic presence in the Middle East, providing a significant military foothold that has implications for regional power dynamics.
Moreover, the agreement could see Russia playing a more active role in combating ISIS (Islamic State), particularly in eastern Syria, where the terrorist group still holds influence. This cooperation would not only serve Russian strategic interests but also align with the Syrian government’s efforts to stabilize the region.
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