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From The New York Times:
http://www.nytimes.com/aponline/2016/03/14/world/europe/ap-syria-talks-the-latest.html
One should note that this arrangement probably has more to do with Russia's securing its interests in Syria than a move to promote a diplomatic settlement in Syria. First, the move was "coordinated" with President Assad. That suggests that both parties mutually agree that the Assad government has stabilized the situation and is no longer in imminent peril of being overthrown. Second, with regard to the longer-term regional balance of power, the article goes on to state, "Putin said that the Russian airbase in Hemeimeem in Syria's coastal province of Latakia and a naval facility in the Syrian port of Tartous will continue to operate." In effect, Russia appears to have gained an airbase that it will continue to operate. The Tartus Naval Base has been in place since it was constructed in 1971, so it isn't new.
Russian President Vladimir Putin has ordered the start of the pullout of the Russian military from Syria starting Tuesday.
Putin said the move should help serve as a stimulus for Syria's political talks. The president said he coordinated the move with Syrian President Bashar Assad.
http://www.nytimes.com/aponline/2016/03/14/world/europe/ap-syria-talks-the-latest.html
One should note that this arrangement probably has more to do with Russia's securing its interests in Syria than a move to promote a diplomatic settlement in Syria. First, the move was "coordinated" with President Assad. That suggests that both parties mutually agree that the Assad government has stabilized the situation and is no longer in imminent peril of being overthrown. Second, with regard to the longer-term regional balance of power, the article goes on to state, "Putin said that the Russian airbase in Hemeimeem in Syria's coastal province of Latakia and a naval facility in the Syrian port of Tartous will continue to operate." In effect, Russia appears to have gained an airbase that it will continue to operate. The Tartus Naval Base has been in place since it was constructed in 1971, so it isn't new.