Putin hosts Syria’s al-Sharaa, pledges support for new regime
Russian President Vladimir Putin met Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa in Moscow to discuss their long-standing relationship. Al-Sharaa said Russia would help guide Syria into a “new Syria” and that Syria would honor past agreements with Russia. This was the first visit by a Syrian leader to Russia since Bashar Assad’s government fell late last year.
Putin emphasized the strong ties between Russia and Syria, which have existed since 1944. Al-Sharaa noted that many of Syria’s resources depend on Russia and that they aim to strengthen their cooperation while respecting past commitments. Russia’s military bases in Syria remain crucial, and the new Syrian leadership is open to maintaining them if they benefit Syria.
