Syria’s Sharaa meets Putin in Moscow

MOSCOW - Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa met with Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin for high-level talks in Moscow on Wednesday. The meeting, held at the Kremlin, marked al-Sharaa's second visit to Russia since assuming power following the ouster of longtime leader Bashar al-Assad in late 2024.

The discussions focused on redefining bilateral relations in the post-Assad era, with the future of Russia's military presence in Syria topping the agenda. Russia maintains key strategic facilities in Syria, including the Hmeimim airbase and the Tartus naval base, which serve as critical footholds for Moscow in the Mediterranean and Middle East.

Context of the Meeting

Sharaa, who led the rebel offensive that toppled Assad as head of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), has governed Syria as interim president since early 2025 and was formally appointed president later that year. His rise marked a dramatic shift in Syrian politics, ending decades of Assad family rule and Russia's staunch support for the former regime.

Russia granted asylum to Assad and his wife after their flight from Damascus, a decision that has complicated ties with the new Syrian leadership. 

Sharaa has repeatedly requested Assad's extradition to face justice for alleged crimes during his rule, though the Kremlin has not signaled willingness to comply.

Despite these tensions, both sides have worked to build pragmatic relations. During their first meeting in October 2025, Sharaa emphasized respect for existing agreements while seeking to redefine the partnership. 

Putin has praised Sharaa's efforts to restore Syria's territorial integrity, including recent advances against remaining holdouts and a ceasefire with Kurdish-led forces in the northeast.

"Much has been accomplished in terms of restoring our interstate relations," Putin said in a televised meeting with Sharaa.

"We have closely monitored your efforts to restore Syria's territorial integrity and I want to congratulate you on the momentum this process is gaining," Putin added.

Russia seeks to secure long-term access to its bases amid partial withdrawals from areas like Qamishli airport in Kurdish-held northeast Syria. Sources indicate Moscow views these facilities as essential for regional influence.

Putin expressed readiness to assist Syria's war-torn economy through reconstruction aid and investment.

Sharaa highlighted Russia's "historic role" in Syria's stability and the region, while Putin congratulated him on momentum toward territorial restoration.

The tone was constructive, with both leaders acknowledging mutual interests in a stable Syria. Sharaa thanked Putin for supporting unity, downplaying past frictions from Russia's intervention on Assad's side.

Broader implications

The meeting underscores Russia's pragmatic pivot toward the new Syrian authorities to preserve influence despite losing its closest ally in Assad. 

For Sharaa, engaging Moscow helps balance relations amid challenges like Israeli strikes, internal reconciliation, and Western sanctions relief efforts.

The Kremlin has released statements emphasizing continued cooperation, signaling that Russia intends to remain a key player in Syria's future.