Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa’s recent meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow underscores the evolving dynamics in the region following the significant political changes in Syria. The meeting comes in the wake of the dramatic toppling of long-time ally Bashar al-Assad in December 2024, a development that has induced shifts in both local and international alliances.
As part of their discussions, the Kremlin highlighted its commitment to maintaining a military presence in Syria, particularly at strategic locations including the Hmeimim airbase and the Tartus naval base along the Mediterranean coast. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov confirmed that the focus of the talks would center on the future of Russian military operations in the country, indicating Moscow’s intent to ensure its influence in Middle Eastern affairs.
In an illustrative move, the Kremlin has recently adjusted its military footprint by withdrawing forces from Qamishli airport in northeast Syria, now focusing on its Mediterranean bases which serve as critical outposts beyond the borders of the former Soviet Union. These developments reveal Russia’s strategic recalibration as it seeks to reinforce its partnership with al-Sharaa’s government.
Despite their past support for al-Assad, the new Syrian administration has adopted a pragmatic stance towards Moscow, allowing the continued operation of Russian military establishments in the region. Al-Sharaa’s diplomatic overtures during his initial visit to the Kremlin in October reflected this shift, though tensions remain regarding the Kremlin’s protection of al-Assad and his family, who previously sought refuge in Russia.
Peskov has remained noncommittal about whether the Kremlin would react positively to al-Sharaa’s repeated calls for the extradition of the former president, highlighting the complexities involved in this geopolitical chess game. Meanwhile, Putin’s motivation to maintain a robust presence in Syria is underscored by recent events in Latin America, where the U.S. mobilized special forces to capture Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, marking a significant loss of another ally for the Kremlin.
The current situation in Syria now features a fragile ceasefire that is holding steady amid ongoing tensions between the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces and government entities. The collaboration between the U.S. and al-Sharaa’s government in light of these developments draws attention to shifting allegiances and the potential for a recalibrated power landscape in the Middle East.
As regional dynamics continue to unfold, the positions of countries like Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Algeria will also be pivotal in shaping the outcomes of future engagements in the region.
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