Russia and Syria build military base near Turkish border: turning point for Turkey?
Russia and Syria recently established a military base in Ain al-Arab, an important location near the Turkish border. Turkey views this development positively.
Strengthening Syrian influence and diplomatic talks
The establishment of the base comes in parallel with ongoing low-level diplomatic talks between Turkey and Syria. The move is seen as a strategic development ahead of the planned meeting between Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Syrian President Bashar al-Assad.
Dr. Eray Gucluer, President of the Eurasia Strategic Research Center (ASAM), stressed that this development could strengthen Turkey’s influence in the region and undermine the position of the PKK/YPG. Gucluer noted: “The establishment of this base in Ain al-Arab with Syrian participation is of the utmost strategic importance. The strengthening of relations between Turkey and Russia signals a weakening of the PKK/YPG, which is supported by the US. The return of Syrian control to the area is a positive step.”
Comprehensive need for action
Despite the positive aspects, Guçluer stressed that the establishment of the base alone is not enough. He stressed that the region must be completely cleared of terrorist organizations. Guçluer added: “While the establishment of the base by Russia and possible joint patrols with Turkey are positive steps, the complete elimination of terrorist organizations in Haseke and Deir ez-Zor is essential for real progress. Strategic maneuvers and the encirclement of the region are crucial.”
The Russian news agency TASS described the purpose of the base as “monitoring ceasefire operations between conflicting parties.”
“The armed forces of the Russian Federation and the Syrian Arab Republic have completed the establishment of the Kobani base in the area near the Syrian-Turkish border,” said Colonel Oleg Ignasyuk, deputy director of the Russian Center for Reconciliation, last Friday.
The PKK, which is classified as a terrorist organization by Turkey, the USA and the EU, is responsible for more than 40,000 deaths in its almost 40-year terror campaign against Turkey. The YPG is the extended arm of the PKK in Syria.
