Russia aims to secure its military bases and expand its economic influence in Syria amidst a power shift following the rise of Syrian rebels. Moscow’s financial support has come at a time when other nations hesitate due to sanctions, presenting Russia with new opportunities. Diplomatic talks between Russia and Syria seek to address both military agreements and economic investments.
Russia is currently pursuing an agreement to maintain its military bases in Syria, following a surprising shift in alignment as Syrian rebels have now assumed power. Initially, during the civil war, Russian leader Vladimir Putin supported President Bashar al-Assad but shifted focus towards future relations with the new governing body, which includes Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, referred to earlier by Moscow as terrorists.
The ongoing uncertainty surrounding U.S. policy in the Middle East has provided Russia with a unique opportunity to not only retain its presence but also to expand its influence in the region. Recently, Moscow supplied the Syrian central bank with $23 million in currency, a significant influx given that other nations remained hesitant due to sanctions. This financial support coincided with delays from Qatar and Saudi Arabia in providing expected budgetary assistance.
Russia’s lack of hesitance to engage with Syria contrasts sharply with the United States’ indecision, potentially allowing Moscow to solidify its position. As Anna Borshchevskaya of the Washington Institute notes, “Russia’s advantage in negotiating with Syria is that it is not hindered by any ethical concerns.” The primary aim for Russia is to maintain and fortify its military infrastructure in Syria, especially amidst challenges related to the conflict in Ukraine.
Negotiations between the two nations have encompassed various topics, including financial investments and gas field developments, though Russia has declined to discuss the extradition of Assad. The Trump administration, meanwhile, appears to have no cohesive strategy regarding the new Syrian regime, complicating counteractions to a potential Russian strengthening in the area.
Historically, Russia has maintained strong ties with Syria, characterized by substantial trade and strategic cooperation under Assad. The recent diplomatic talks, led by Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov, aim to address the future of Russian military bases, economic ties, and previously signed agreements. In light of new leadership in Syria, a renewed relationship seems imminent as both Moscow and Damascus seek mutual benefits.
Recent communications indicate that the Syrian government is looking to not only rectify past grievances concerning Russian military actions but also to secure the return of substantial funds transferred to Russia by its former regime. This includes negotiations surrounding unfinished contracts related to significant infrastructure projects.
Given that Assad’s reliance on Russia may hinder the latter’s ambitions, Moscow has now recognized a more favorable opportunity with the recent political change in Syria. The changing dynamics may allow Syria to reinforce its standing against regional powers like Turkey and Iran, should a collaborative partnership with Russia materialize successfully.
As one Syrian official noted, there is a desire to “open to a new page,” indicating preliminary optimism towards future relations. The evolving nature of this relationship could reshape the geopolitical landscape significantly in the region.
In summary, Russia is actively seeking to reinforce its military and economic presence in Syria, capitalizing on the current political landscape. With the uncertainty of U.S. engagement, Moscow’s renewed partnership with the Syrian leadership presents implications for regional power dynamics, specifically against Turkey and Iran. The focus on financial aid and strategic agreements signals a shifting relationship that may impact future governance and territorial influence in Syria.
Original Source: www.livemint.com
