Syria announced a memorandum of understanding to convert two Russian military bases into joint training centers, following 18 months of negotiations.

Syrian authorities announced on Sunday, August 9, 2026, that a deal has been reached with Russia regarding the status of the Hmeimim airbase and Tartus naval base. The agreement, which follows a year and a half of negotiations, will transition the sites into joint training and capacity-building centers. Under the terms of the memorandum, the process is expected to be completed within three months.

Transition of Facilities

The memorandum of understanding stipulates that civilian facilities located at both the Hmeimim and Tartus bases will be transferred to the control of the Syrian government. As part of this shift, the Syrian Civil Aviation Authority has begun assessing Latakia’s international airport, a civilian facility adjacent to the Hmeimim base. Omar al-Hasri, head of the authority, stated that teams are conducting technical and operational evaluations to prepare for the airport’s rehabilitation and reintegration into the national civil aviation system.

Diplomatic Context

The agreement marks a shift in the relationship between Moscow and the new authorities in Damascus following the 2024 ouster of former leader Bashar al-Assad. Russian President Vladimir Putin has sought to secure the future of these bases, which remain Russia's only official military installations outside the former Soviet Union. Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa has met with Putin twice since taking office, with both leaders publicly emphasizing the restoration of interstate relations and territorial integrity. Russia has not yet issued an official comment on the new agreement.