Russia seeks to retain military bases and expand influence in Syria following the fall of Assad, capitalizing on U.S. allies’ indecision and a $23 million cash injection to the country. Negotiations cover various topics, including investments in infrastructure. The situation presents Russia with an opportunity to bolster its strategic foothold amid regional shifts.
Russia is actively negotiating to retain its military bases in Syria and augment its economic influence following a significant power shift after the Syrian civil war. The rise of rebel groups, now in control, has created a scenario where Moscow sees an opportunity to sustain and expand its presence in the region, which is of strategic importance for both military and economic reasons.
During the prolonged Syrian civil war, Russian President Vladimir Putin played a key role in supporting President Bashar al-Assad. Russia constructed vital military bases along Syria’s coast, extending its influence into the Mediterranean and enabling it to strike rebel targets, including those of the new ruling group, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham. Following Assad’s departure, he took refuge in Russia, underscoring the Kremlin’s ongoing involvement.
The current U.S. administration’s lack of clarity regarding its stance on Syria has led to hesitation among its Middle Eastern allies in providing financial support to the new government. This vacuum presents Russia with a chance to not only maintain but also enhance its strategic foothold.
A recent development highlighting improving ties between Syria and Russia includes a $23 million cash injection provided by Moscow to the Central Bank of Syria, which bolsters a struggling economy amid sanctions. This gesture stands in stark contrast to the hesitance of Gulf states such as Qatar and Saudi Arabia, which are holding back financial assistance pending decisions from Washington regarding sanctions.
Despite being sanctioned over its actions in Ukraine, Russia has positioned itself advantageously in negotiating terms with Syria. Experts suggest that Russia’s lack of ethical constraints enables it to offer support that Western nations cannot, raising concerns about how the West will engage to suppress Moscow’s influence.
Russia’s retention of its military bases in Syria is crucial, especially as Moscow faces complications from the conflict in Ukraine. Negotiations reportedly cover multiple aspects, including cash investments into critical infrastructure projects like gas fields and ports, but Russia has declined to discuss the extradition of Assad.
The U.S. has yet to establish a coherent strategy regarding the new regime in Syria, creating a power vacuum that Russia is likely to exploit. Historical ties between Syria and Russia highlight their interdependent relationship, where Moscow plays a key role as both a military supporter and economic partner.
Discrete discussions initiated by high-level Russian officials have expanded beyond military presence to encompass broader economic cooperation aimed at stabilizing the new Syrian regime. Early engagements have indicated mutual interests that could revive substantial investments in sectors such as oil, gas, and construction.
Russia is capitalizing on the current geopolitical landscape in Syria to solidify its military presence and expand economic ties, especially in light of U.S. uncertainty. With crucial investments and military bases at stake, Russia’s negotiations reflect a strategic shift that could reshape regional alliances. The evolving dynamics between Russia and Syria’s new leadership signify a potential strengthening of Moscow’s influence while sidelining Western powers.
Original Source: www.livemint.com
