**Russia Nears Deal with Syria for Post-Assad Military Presence**
Russia is close to reaching a deal with Syria that would allow it to maintain a limited military presence in the country after the fall of President Bashar al-Assad’s regime. According to Bloomberg, this agreement has been discussed between Russian and Syrian officials.
Under the proposed deal, Russia would be allowed to keep its naval base in Tartus and airbase in Khmeimim, which have served as key military outposts in the region. In exchange, Moscow may assist Damascus in countering the Islamic State group, which is still active in eastern Syria.
**Russia’s Presence in Syria**
Russia has been involved in Syria since 2015, when it deployed troops to support Assad’s regime. The Kremlin used this support to gain an upper hand in the country’s civil war.
The reported deal follows a phone call between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Syria’s new leader, Ahmad al-Sharaa. Syrian Defense Minister Murhaf Abu Qasra has said that Russia would need to offer something in return for its military bases to remain in the country.
**Ukraine Involvement**
Ukraine has also been involved in discussions over Russia’s military presence in Syria. Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha visited Damascus and indicated that Kyiv and Damascus share similar views on the matter.
Western officials have been cautious, however. EU chief diplomat Kaja Kallas warned that sanctions could be reinstated if Damascus takes “wrong steps.”