Syria and Russia Reach Agreement on Future of Russian Military Bases

Syrian authorities announced on Sunday, August 9, 2026, that a memorandum of understanding (MoU) has been reached with Russia regarding the future of Russia's military presence at the Hmeimim air base and the Tartous naval facility. This agreement follows approximately 18 months of intensive negotiations and formalizes the end of Russia's unilateral military basing rights, with Syria gradually taking over management of civilian facilities.