Bloomberg: Moscow close to agreement with new Syrian government
Bloomberg revealed that Russia seeks to maintain a limited military presence in Syria despite the reduction of its influence, after the decline of the influence of its former ally Bashar al Assad.
Bloomberg explained that talks between Moscow and the new Syrian government are ongoing on this subject.
According to private sources, Russia is close to concluding an agreement that allows it to keep some soldiers and equipment in the country.
Moscow aspires to maintain its naval and air bases that it used in Syria before the collapse of the Assad regime, which ended with the exit of President Bashar al Assad and his family to Russia.
Bloomberg indicates that the continued Russian military presence in Syria will enhance Russia’s position on the international scene and re-strengthen its relations with Damascus.
Russia is also likely to contribute to efforts to combat ISIS in eastern Syria, in addition to helping the Syrian government in confronting the growing Turkish influence.
The Assad regime collapsed after a lightning attack carried out by the Syrian opposition last December, which ended with the factions controlling Damascus and Assad fleeing to Russia.
For his part, Syrian Defense Minister Murhaf Abu Qasra stated that relations with Moscow are witnessing a noticeable improvement, indicating that the new government is open to dialogue to ensure the interests of the Syrian people, while talks continue regarding Russian bases in Syria.
