On July 31, Sergey Vershinin, Deputy Foreign Minister of Russia, confirmed that communications between Moscow and Damascus regarding Russian military bases in Syria are ongoing. Vershinin stated in a press statement reported by Sputnik: “Of course, there are communications about the Russian bases in Syria, which are directed, among other things, to ensure the safety of our citizens,” adding that “the Russian bases in Syria have been and remain a factor of stability in the region,” noting that they “can significantly contribute to enhancing the effectiveness of humanitarian aid provided to the population.”