Russia is set to establish a permanent naval base in Syria. Deputy Defense Minister Nikolai Pankov made a statement Monday claiming the nation’s intention to build out the supply base. “In Syria, we will have a permanent naval base in Tartus. The corresponding documents have been drafted. Currently they are in the process of inter-departmental coordination,” Pankov said. “The degree of readiness is rather high.” Russia has been criticized for appearing to prop up the Syrian regime while claiming that it is targeting ISIS.
