In a pivotal diplomatic moment, Russian President Vladimir Putin met with Syria's interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa in Moscow, marking their first encounter since the fall of Bashar al-Assad in 2024.
Al-Sharaa is keen to redefine Syria's relationship with Russia, vowing to uphold all past agreements, which indicates the continued security of Russia's military bases in Syria.
The backdrop of this meeting highlights the ongoing realignment of power in the Middle East, as al-Sharaa seeks to establish a new governance framework following the ousting of Assad, a former ally of Russia.
Amidst discussions of military cooperation, al-Sharaa is expected to request the extradition of the exiled Assad, who currently resides in Russia, adding a layer of complexity to their negotiations.
The historical enmity between al-Sharaa and Assad during the Syrian civil war underlines the dramatic shifts in allegiances as Syria looks toward a future free of Assad's influence.
This meeting not only signals potential economic and military collaboration but also reflects the broader transformation of international relations in the region, setting the stage for new strategic alignments.
23
