As the United States reduces its worldwide presence, Russia is talking to Syria’s new rulers in order to maintain its military presence, a Wall Street Journal report said. The removal of Syrian president Bashar al-Assad left Russia’s presence in the country in doubt.

In the Syrian Civil War, Russia was backing Assad, while the new ruling group, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), under Ahmed al-Sharaa, was battling against him. Reports and satellite images suggested that Russia was moving its troops, ships, and aircraft from Syria to Libya and other areas. But in the wake of the lack of a definitive US policy towards Syria during President Donald Trump’s rule, Moscow has taken the chance to renegotiate its presence in the country.

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Strategic Significance of Russian Bases in Syria

Russia has been operating two strategic military bases in Syria for years: Khmeimim Airbase in Latakia and the Tartus Naval Base on the Mediterranean coast. These bases have been of strategic importance to Russia’s military, offering access to the Mediterranean Sea, supporting operations in Ukraine, and extending power into the south of NATO.

While with the US having decreased its presence in the area, Russia re-engaged HTS not merely to keep the bases but to expand economic and trade relations too.

Russia’s Reset in Syria: A New Strategy

Though both Russia and HTS were on opposite sides during the civil war, they are currently negotiating a redefinition of their relationship. Russia had been previously conducting military attacks against HTS in aid of Assad. But since HTS spearheaded a rapid attack last year that brought an end to the Assad regime’s long reign, Russia has changed tactics.

There have been a number of reasons why this has been the case:

  • US Alignment With Russia – Trump’s administration has not pushed back on Russia’s actions in Syria, leaving a power vacuum.
  • Unclear US Policy – As Washington has not established its position in the region, Russia has sought to fill the vacuum.
  • HTS Expanding Beyond Turkey – Though Turkey had been instrumental in HTS’s triumph, the group is expanding its alliances now.

Russia’s Economic Assistance to Syria

In a bid to reinforce relations, Russia has already begun providing Syria with economic aid. Moscow gave $23 million worth of Syrian currency last month to shore up the nation’s economy, which was struggling, as Gulf states such as Saudi Arabia and Qatar held back aid fearing sanctions.

Also on the negotiating table are:

  • Investment in oil and gas fields
  • Construction of export ports
  • Permanent keeping of Russian military bases

The Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov and Syria envoy Alexander Lavrentiev have reportedly been talking to the new government in order to consolidate these arrangements. The focus began with military bases, and talks are now turning to trade and economic cooperation.