The Russian Navy's presence will increase at Syrian ports, according to Igor Belyaev, the Russian charge d'affaires. He said, "Russian vessels will be visiting Syria and other friendly ports more frequently." 
 
The announcement came at the same time Israel has been trying to keep relations with Russia from souring following revelations that Israeli firms armed Georgia prior to the recent confrontation with Russia. Elyaev denied that Russia will deploy Iskander missiles in Syria.