Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa has pledged to honour all existing agreements between Damascus and Moscow, signaling continuity in Russia’s military and economic presence in Syria despite last year’s leadership change. The statement came during Sharaa’s first official visit to Russia since ousting former President Bashar al-Assad in December.
“There are bilateral relations and shared interests that bind us with Russia, and we respect all agreements made with it,” Sharaa told Russian President Vladimir Putin at the Kremlin on Wednesday. “We are working on redefining the nature of relations with Russia.”
The meeting, described as sensitive by diplomatic observers, marks a pivotal moment in Syria-Russia relations. Sharaa, a former leader of Syria’s al Qaeda affiliate, rose to power following a wave of youth-led protests and defections within the Syrian military. His visit comes amid efforts to recalibrate ties with Moscow, which had long supported Assad’s regime.
Putin responded positively, expressing readiness to build on “many interesting and useful beginnings” already discussed between the two governments.
Military Bases and Economic Cooperation
Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak confirmed that the leaders discussed cooperation on oil and infrastructure projects. “Russian companies have been working in Syria for a long time,” Novak said. “We are ready to participate in developing existing fields, reopening mothballed sites, and exploring new ones.”
The Kremlin had earlier indicated that the fate of Russia’s strategic military installations in Syria—including the Hmeimim air base in Latakia and the naval facility in Tartous—would be on the agenda. Russia also maintains a presence at Qamishli airport near the Turkish and Iraqi borders.
Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said this week that Damascus supports the continued operation of Russian bases, which Moscow views as potential logistics hubs for humanitarian aid to Africa.
Syrian officials are reportedly seeking assurances that Russia will not rearm remnants of Assad’s forces. Sources close to the talks say Sharaa is also requesting Russian assistance in rebuilding Syria’s military under the new administration.
Assad’s Fate and Regional Tensions
The visit is further complicated by the presence of Assad and his family in Moscow, where they were granted asylum following their departure from Syria. According to Syrian sources, Sharaa is expected to formally request that Russia hand over Assad to face trial for alleged crimes committed during his tenure.
Russia, which has long positioned itself as a protector of foreign allies, is unlikely to comply. Lavrov reiterated that Assad was granted refuge due to credible threats against his life.
Sharaa is also seeking economic concessions, including the resumption of wheat supplies on favorable terms and compensation for war-related damage. Additionally, he is expected to press for Russian support in resisting Israeli demands for an expanded demilitarized zone in southern Syria.
One source indicated that Sharaa may propose redeploying Russian military police to act as a buffer against further Israeli incursions.
The outcome of the talks could reshape Syria’s post-conflict trajectory and redefine Moscow’s role in the region, as both sides navigate a complex web of military, diplomatic, and humanitarian priorities.
