Story perspectives

Syria, Russia Agree to Hand Over Hmeimim Base, Tartus Port

8/9/2026

Center

Syria Gains Control

Syria and Russia signed a memorandum of understanding on Sunday to transfer management of Hmeimim air base and Tartus port berth to Syrian control.
Russia has not issued an immediate comment on the memorandum.
The handover is to be completed within three months, integrating sites into Syria’s civilian administration.
These sites, Russia’s only overseas bases, will serve as training and qualification centers.

Left

Syria Secures Bases

Syria and Russia signed a memorandum on Sunday to transfer management of the Hmeimim air base and Tartus port berth to Syrian control.
The deal highlights civilian administration and joint training centres, stressing impacts on local communities, public services, and life.
Syria ended Russia’s Tartus port contract and secured an $800 million investment from Dubai Ports World.
Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani visited bases to inspect installations covered by the memorandum.

Blindspot

Syria ended Russia’s management contract for the Tartus port and obtained an $800 million investment from Dubai Ports World, according to Syrian officials.
Within this story's sources, this angle appears mainly in Left-leaning coverage and receives less attention in Center-leaning coverage.

History

Historical Context

In 1971 the Soviet Union secured a Cold-War agreement with Hafez al-Assad that gave Moscow control of the Tartus naval facility and the Hmeimim airfield, allowing the Black Sea Fleet Mediterranean access. After Russia renovated the base and signed a 49-year, free-of-charge treaty in 2017, the latest memorandum hands management of both sites back to Syrian civilian authorities, curbing Moscow’s long-standing foothold.

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Syria Gains Control

Syria and Russia signed a memorandum of understanding on Sunday to transfer management of Hmeimim air base and Tartus port berth to Syrian control.
Russia has not issued an immediate comment on the memorandum.
The handover is to be completed within three months, integrating sites into Syria’s civilian administration.
These sites, Russia’s only overseas bases, will serve as training and qualification centers.

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