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Moscow: No Final Decisions About Our Military Bases' Fate in Syria
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Talk About Libya as Potential Russian Bases Alternative Reveals Moscow's Desire to Ensure Strategic Mediterranean Foothold Regardless of Results
Questions about Russian military bases' future in Syria dominated scene, especially following former Syrian regime president Bashar al-Assad's rule collapse, while Kremlin emphasized no decisions taken in this regard.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated during Monday press conference no final decisions regarding military facilities' fate yet.
Peskov's comments responded to inquiry about bases' future and circulating reports about Moscow's intention choosing Libya as alternative location, denying any current final decisions, according to TASS.
Russian spokesman highlighted continuing "contacts with representatives of forces currently controlling country's situation," adding future will be determined through talks.
Russia maintains two main military facilities in Syria: naval logistics center in Tartus established 1971 under bilateral agreement, and Hmeimim Air Base about 20 km southeast of Latakia, established September 30, 2015 under ISIS combat pretext.
Kremlin statements emerged after informed sources confirmed Russian forces withdrawing some equipment and soldiers from Syria recent days, noting bases remain standing given strategic importance providing Moscow Mediterranean window and proximity to African countries with interests.
These developments followed HTS and allies' control of Aleppo late last month, then Hama and Homs, reaching Damascus falling December 7, followed by previous government announcing regime collapse and Assad's flight, granted Russian humanitarian asylum.
Levant-Agencies
