Russia’s consul general in İstanbul said on Tuesday that discussions with Turkey about the situation in Syria are ongoing and underlined efforts to ensure the two countries’ interests do not clash in the aftermath of the recent regime change in Damascus, the Demirören news agency reported.
Speaking at a press briefing, Russian Consul General Andrei Buravov highlighted the long-standing diplomatic engagement between Moscow and Ankara regarding Syria.
“There is a close dialogue between Russia and Turkey on Syria, conducted in various formats,” Buravov said, referring to agreements reached in 2019 and 2020, including joint patrols and measures taken in Idlib. He noted that these discussions have aimed to stabilize Syria and foster reconciliation between the government and opposition forces.
Addressing concerns about potential friction between the two countries amid shifting dynamics in Syria, Buravov stressed the importance of ongoing consultations. “Efforts are being made to ensure that the interests of Russia and Turkey do not conflict,” he said, adding that both nations are prioritizing their respective interests while seeking solutions to normalize the situation.
Buravov also underscored Russia’s broader position on Syria’s future, calling for an inclusive, Syrian-led political process supported by the United Nations. “We have consistently expressed our views in close contact with our partners, international representatives, and the United Nations,” he said. “Our stance remains grounded in respect for Syria’s sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity, as outlined in UN Security Council Resolution 2254.”
Russian military bases in Syria under review
Buravov addressed questions regarding the future of Russia’s military installations in Syria following the recent transition of power. He noted that Moscow’s military presence in the country is rooted in agreements made with previous Syrian governments, including one dating back to the 1970s and another in 2015 at the request of Syria’s then-legitimate government.
“In the current situation, the fate of these bases is a question that will be determined through ongoing negotiations,” Buravov said, referring to the Hmeimim airbase and the Tartus naval facility. “Discussions are ongoing, and the outcome will depend on the results of these talks.”
The consul general acknowledged that Syria faces a challenging transition period and expressed solidarity with the Syrian people. “Syria has entered an inevitable period of new challenges, and we sincerely hope that the country will overcome all obstacles and difficulties,” Buravov said.