Syria’s interim President Ahmad al-Sharaa visited Moscow yesterday, holding talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin at the Kremlin. The discussions focused on Russia’s potential future military presence in Syria, as well as broader economic cooperation. Putin reaffirmed Russia’s support for Syria’s efforts to regain control over its entire territory, including regions under Kurdish administration, and expressed willingness to assist in rebuilding the country’s war-torn economy.
Since an Islamist-led group under Ahmad al-Sharaa ousted longtime Syrian leader Bashar al-Assad—a close Russian ally—in December 2024, Moscow has been seeking to strengthen relations with the new Syrian government. Russia aims to maintain its military foothold in Syria to preserve its influence in the Middle East. The interim government in Damascus has indicated openness to deepening ties with Moscow, viewing Russian support as a key component in reconstruction efforts and in diversifying its foreign partnerships.
