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Future of Russian Bases in Syria Depends on Negotiations with New Authority
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Syrian Opposition Appears Keen to Delay Decision on Russian Bases' Fate, Reflecting Desire to Avoid Early Tension with Moscow
Four Syrian officials told Reuters about Russian forces' withdrawal from northern Syria battle fronts and coastal highland positions, while maintaining main facilities following Syrian regime president Bashar al-Assad's fall.
Assad's overthrow, who with late father Hafez established close Moscow alliance foundations, raised questions about Russian military facilities' future, represented by Hmeimim airport in Latakia and Tartus naval port.
Satellite images taken Friday show apparently at least two Antonov AN-124s, classified among world's largest transport aircraft, at Hmeimim base with front ends open likely preparing for loading.
Syrian security official near facility reported at least one cargo plane departing Saturday toward Libya. Syrian military and security sources connected to Russian side told Reuters about Moscow withdrawing elements from frontlines and transferring heavy equipment and senior Syrian officers.
Sources, requesting anonymity given situation sensitivity, confirmed continued Russian presence in main facilities with no current withdrawal intention.
Senior Syrian army commander connected to Russian forces told Reuters Moscow transferred some equipment and senior Syrian officers to Russian capital, explaining current goal as repositioning and redeployment per field developments.
Reuters quoted senior Syrian opposition official close to new interim administration ruling out currently discussing Russian military presence in Syria and previous Assad regime-Moscow agreements.
Official added Russian military presence fate subject to future discussions Syrian people decide, noting establishing Moscow communication channels. Explained opposition forces currently "surrounding Russian bases in Latakia," without details.
Kremlin announced direct negotiations with new Syrian leadership about bases. Russian source confirmed ongoing consultations with Syria's new rulers, denying Moscow's bases withdrawal.
Russian President Vladimir Putin, whose 2015 Syrian conflict intervention supported Assad when West demanded his removal, granted Assad asylum in Russia after Moscow facilitated his Sunday departure.
Levant-Agencies
