Russia seeks to maintain and expand its military bases in Syria, capitalizing on the shift in power dynamics with Syrian rebels now in authority. Moscow is providing financial support amid hesitance from U.S. allies, indicating a significant opportunity for economic and strategic engagement. Expert analysis highlights Russia’s strengths in negotiations without ethical constraints, raising questions about the West’s future role in Syria.
In a significant diplomatic development, Russia is pursuing a deal to maintain and possibly expand its military bases in Syria following a recent shift in power dynamics. With Syrian rebels now holding authority in Damascus, Moscow aims to capitalize on this change to strengthen its economic presence despite previously labeling them as terrorists. This unexpected opportunity for Russia arises as regional allies of the United States hesitate in providing support to the new Syrian government due to uncertainties regarding U.S. policy under the Trump administration.
Moscow has already taken steps to solidify its engagement, evidenced by a recent cash injection of approximately $23 million into the Syrian central bank, a move largely unchallenged by other nations wary of sanctions. Discussions on financial support arose as countries like Qatar and Saudi Arabia paused their promised assistance, pending clarity on U.S. sanctions against the new rulers. Russia’s direct assistance is significant, as it continues to defy Western economic restrictions resulting from its involvement in Ukraine.
Experts point out that Russia’s negotiating leverage with Syria stems from its lack of ethical constraints and ability to act independently in contrast to the West. “The key question is how will the West position itself and engage with Syria to reduce reasons to rely on Russia,” noted Anna Borshchevskaya, a fellow at the Washington Institute. For Moscow, retaining its military bases represents a crucial strategic advantage amid challenges arising from the conflict in Ukraine.
The ongoing negotiations reflect a broadened scope, covering not only military but also economic interests, with discussions on investments in energy and infrastructure. Russia’s involvement may restore longstanding economic ties that existed under Assad’s leadership, offering the potential for lucrative opportunities in gas and oil fields as well as port development. Furthermore, the recent communications between Putin and the new leadership may signify a pivotal moment in Russian-Syrian relations, facilitating much-needed economic assistance crucial for Syria’s stability.
Syria’s new leaders also seek to diversify their alliances to counterbalance Turkish influence, having been directly challenged in the north. An essential part of their negotiation strategy involves pursuing reparations for the destruction caused during the conflict supported by Russian forces. Syrian representatives have mentioned the desire for the repatriation of significant funds previously transferred to Russia by the Assad regime.
The new Syrian government aims to discuss existing agreements from the Assad era, such as those related to the development of the Tartus port and various resource extraction projects. These ongoing dialogues mark a resurgence of Russia’s economic aspirations in the region, demonstrating the shifting geopolitical landscape following the fall of Assad.
Amidst previous disappointments with Assad’s regime, Russia now seeks to solidify its presence against competitors in the region, presenting an opportunity for both nations to renegotiate their positions. The prospect of moving into a new chapter in their relations, despite past grievances, underscores the complexities and enduring influence Moscow wields in the Middle East.
In conclusion, Russia’s pursuit of a strategic deal to maintain and extend its military bases in Syria reflects the evolving geopolitical landscape following the ascent of Syrian rebels. With their reliance on Russia amid stalled Western support, Syria’s new government is primed for opportunities that could restore historical ties and mitigate foreign influence. This new phase emphasizes the importance of understanding both local and international factors that influence regional governance and stability.
Original Source: www.livemint.com
