Syria Terminates Contract with Russia, Signaling Major Loss for Putin in the Mediterranean
The Syrian transitional government has announced its intent to reclaim control over the strategic port city of Tartus, compelling Russia to relinquish its significant naval base in the region. Reports from multiple sources indicate that Syria has officially canceled an investment agreement signed in 2019 with the Russian company Stroitransgas, a move that diminishes President Vladimir Putin's influence in the Mediterranean.
According to statements made by Riad Judy, the head of the customs authority in Tartus, the investment agreement with the Russian entity, which was initially established under Bashar al-Assad's administration for a duration of 49 years, has been annulled. Judy emphasized that all revenue generated from port activities will now be utilized for the benefit of Syria.
Historically, Russia has been a steadfast ally of the Assad regime, providing military and political support. However, the recent upheaval in the country, culminating in the capture of Damascus by the Islamist rebel group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) on December 8, has led to a significant shift in power dynamics. The HTS, led by Ahmed al-Sharaa, is now at the helm of the transitional government, overseeing the nation's affairs.
The original agreement allowed the Russian company to operate the port and invest over $500 million in modernization efforts while retaining 65% of the port's profits. Tartus has been recognized as a crucial base for Russian military operations in Syria, alongside the airbase at Hmeimim.
While the future of the Russian naval presence in Tartus remains uncertain, assessments from the Institute for the Study of War (ISW) suggest that the cancellation of the contract indicates HTS's intention to restore Syrian sovereignty over the port, making it improbable for Russia to maintain its military foothold there.
Recently, the Russian cargo ship Sparta II docked in Tartus, reportedly carrying military equipment destined for Libya. The HTS-led transitional government permitted the vessel's entry, a move interpreted by the ISW as reflective of a possible agreement between HTS and Russia. Prior to this, the HTS had denied access to Russian ships, indicating a potential shift in alliances.
In addition, satellite imagery has revealed that convoys of Russian military equipment and supplies have been prepared for evacuation from Tartus since mid-December, coinciding with reports of damage sustained by the Russian fleet during an Israeli airstrike in December.
Amidst these developments, pressure from the European Union is mounting for a withdrawal of Russian troops from Syria. German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock has reportedly advocated for such a withdrawal during her diplomatic visits to Damascus and Riyadh, emphasizing the implications for European security. The sentiment among the Syrian population remains largely negative towards Russia, as they have not forgotten the Kremlin's support for the Assad regime's military campaigns against civilians.
