Russia secures strategic military presence in Syria

Russia is on the verge of concluding an agreement with the new Syrian leadership to ensure the retention of two significant military bases in the crisis-ridden Middle Eastern state. This objective is particularly in the Kremlin's focus following the ousting of President Bashar al-Assad. Currently, discussions are underway regarding the presence of Russian troops both at the naval port of Tartus and the Hmeimim airbase. Individuals familiar with the matter reported from Moscow, Europe, and the Middle East, but wish to remain unnamed due to the sensitivity of the topic.