Russia is willing to help with the reconstruction of Syria as it continues to seek a deal with the country’s new leadership to retain two vital military bases, according to a senior Middle East policy adviser to the Russian government.

Tulsi Gabbard faced tough questions Thursday about past comments about Russia, Syria and government leaker Edward Snowden during a Senate confirmation hearing on her nomination to lead the U.S. intelligence service.

Tulsi Gabbard, President Trump's pick for director of national intelligence, faces tough questions from senators on Russia, Syria and Edward Snowden.

The nominee for director of national intelligence espoused provocative takes on foreign policy during public appearances. Senators are expected to challenge some of those in her confirmation hearing.

It already appears evident that the days of Russia serving as its leading arms supplier have come to an ignominious end.

Among the topics that came up: her stance on an electronic surveillance program, her push to drop charges against Edward Snowden and her 2017 meeting with Syrian President Bashar al-Assad.

Tulsi Gabbard, President Trump's nominee for director of national intelligence, appears to be headed to a close vote in the Senate. Nick Schifrin reports on the questioning she faced in her confirmation hearing.

Russia said on Wednesday it had held "frank" discussions with Syria's new de facto leader as it tries to retain its two military bases in the country, but it declined to comment on what he was demanding in return.

Two Russian ships docked at Syria’s main Mediterranean port last week, in what appears to be part of a large-scale withdrawal of equipment. The loss of access to the port has left Russia’s navy adrift – not to mention Moscow’s entire Middle East strategy.

Russia is struggling to retain two military bases in Syria that have enabled it to project influence in the Middle East and Africa, according to a person in Moscow familiar with the situation.

Tulsi Gabbard, President Donald Trump's pick to be director of national intelligence, has faced tough questions from lawmakers during a fiery confirmation hearing Thursday.