Syria denies Russian logistics center reports at Tartus Port

Mazen Alloush, director of public relations at Syria's General Authority for Borders and Customs, said Thursday that reports claiming Russia established a commercial logistics center at Tartus Port are "baseless," warning media outlets to verify information through official sources. The denial followed claims by a Western media outlet — citing unidentified Syrian officials — that Moscow had begun operating a logistics facility at the Mediterranean harbor.

Alloush emphasized that any projects or agreements related to Syria's ports and border crossings "are announced exclusively through official channels," according to the SANA news agency. He called on the public to avoid circulating unverified reports that could mislead opinion on strategic economic matters.

Infrastructure Plans

Tartus serves as Syria's second-largest commercial harbor after Latakia and remains a vital economic facility on the country's Mediterranean coast. In May 2025, the border authority signed an $800 million memorandum of understanding with Dubai Ports World to upgrade infrastructure and logistics capabilities at the port. The agreement aims to strengthen Tartus as a major hub for regional and international trade.

Administrative Transition

The denial comes as Syria's new administration seeks to reassert full control over strategic state facilities and review previous contracts to ensure compliance with domestic laws. Officials are working to maximize economic returns during the country's recovery and reconstruction phase while maintaining transparency in major infrastructure deals.