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Source: https://www.ft.com/content/df62a69e-aa53-4cde-8a02-4d2cd465a370?syn-25a6b1a6=1
Syria Makes Deal to Take Control of Russian Bases
(Financial Times-UK) Max Seddon - Syria said on Aug. 9 it had reached a deal to take control of two Russian military bases, largely ending Moscow's military presence in the country. The Syrian Foreign Ministry said the deal would "reorganize Moscow's presence" to give Syrian civilian authorities control of transport facilities at Hmeimim and Tartus, an airfield and naval base on the Mediterranean coast, state news agency SANA reported. Russia's military facilities at the bases will be "transformed into joint training and qualification centers" following a three-month transition period. The announcement appeared to mark a significant strategic blow for Russia, after Moscow's ally Bashar al-Assad was overthrown in late 2024. Russia evacuated hundreds of military and civilian personnel following Assad's ousting. Putin granted asylum to Assad and his family.