Russia and Syria set up military base near Turkish border: Game-changer for Türkiye?
Wall along the border between Türkiye and Syria is pictured near the southeastern town of Deliosman in Kilis province, Türkiye, August 29, 2016 (Reuters Photo)
Russia and Syria have recently established a military base in Ayn al-Arab, a key location near the Turkish border. This development is viewed positively by Türkiye.
Strengthening Syrian influence and diplomatic talks
The establishment of the base aligns with ongoing low-level diplomatic talks between Türkiye and Syria. The move, ahead of the anticipated meeting between Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, is considered a strategic development.
Dr. Eray Gucluer, President of the Eurasia Strategic Research Center (ASAM), highlighted that this development could bolster Türkiye’s influence in the region and undermine the PKK/YPG’s position. Gucluer remarked, “The establishment of this base in Ayn al-Arab, with Syrian involvement, is highly strategic. The strengthening of the relationship between Türkiye and Russia signals a weakening of the PKK/YPG, which is supported by the U.S. The return of Syrian control to the area is a positive move.”
Need for comprehensive action
Despite the positive aspects, Gucluer emphasized that the establishment of the base alone is not sufficient. He stressed that the region needs to be fully cleared of terrorist organizations. Guçluer added, “While the establishment of the base by Russia and potential joint patrols with Türkiye are positive steps, complete elimination of terrorist organizations in Haseke and Deir ez-Zor is essential for genuine progress. Strategic maneuvers and encircling the region are crucial.”
The Russian TASS agency described the base’s purpose as “monitoring the ceasefire operations between conflicting parties.”
“The armed forces of the Russian Federation and the Syrian Arab Republic have completed the installation of the Kobani base in the area near the Syrian-Turkish border,” Colonel Oleg Ignasyuk, Deputy Director of the Russian Center for Reconciliation, said last Friday.
The PKK, listed as a terrorist organization by Türkiye, the U.S. and the E.U., is responsible for more than 40,000 deaths in its nearly 40-year campaign of terror against Türkiye. The YPG is the PKK’s extension in Syria.
