In an interview, Murhaf Abu Qasra, a onetime leader in Syria’s insurgency, discussed moves by authorities in Damascus to build new alliances.

Syria’s new leadership is open to allowing Russia to keep its military bases in the country if it aligns with national interests, Murhaf Abu Qasra, defense minister in the transitional government, told The Washington Post in an interview published on February 6.

The arrival of the first top Russian diplomat in Damascus since Bashar al-Assad’s fall kicks off negotiations over the fate of Moscow’s bases in Syria.

Syria will keep Russian military bases on its territory in Tartus and Khmeimim, if it is beneficial to her, said the Minister of Defense of the transitional Government, Murhaf Abu Kasra.

A delegation from the Russian Foreign Ministry travelled to Damascus for talks with Syria's new leaders on Tuesday for the first time since the fall of long-time ruler and Moscow ally Bashar al-Assad.

Russian delegation held 'constructive' talks with new Syrian administration, says deputy foreign minister - Anadolu Ajansı

Russia is willing to help with the reconstruction of Syria as it continues to seek a deal with the country’s new leadership to retain two vital military bases, according to a senior Middle East policy adviser to the Russian government.

Syria's new government will decide the fate of Russian military bases based on national interests, Syrian Defense Minister Murhaf Abu Qasra told The Washington Post on Feb. 6. Russia's ability to retain its naval base in Tartus and airbase in Khmeimim will depend on what Moscow offers in return,