Zelensky in Syria to discuss security cooperation with President Ahmed al-Sharaa

Syrian interim President Ahmad al-Sharaa met with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow on Wednesday, marking his second visit in four months. Putin expressed Russia's willingness to assist in rebuilding Syria's war-torn economy. Discussions were expected to include the future of Russian military bases in Syria, which are strategically important for Russia's presence in the Mediterranean. Al-Sharaa thanked Putin for Russia's role in stabilizing Syria following the December 2024 rebel offensive that ousted former President Bashar al-Assad, who had previously been supported by Moscow. Russia, currently focused on the conflict in Ukraine, did not intervene in the offensive and granted asylum to Assad and his family.

In January 2026, Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa met with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow to discuss Russia's military presence in Syria. The meeting follows the 2024 ousting of Bashar al-Assad, a former Kremlin ally, by al-Sharaa's rebel forces. Russia aims to maintain its influence in the Middle East by securing its military bases at Hmeimim airbase and Tartus naval base, its only military outposts outside the former Soviet Union after withdrawing from Qamishli airport. While al-Sharaa has adopted a pragmatic approach to relations with Russia, a point of contention remains Russia's sheltering of al-Assad, who fled to Moscow after the uprising. Al-Sharaa has repeatedly requested al-Assad's extradition, but the Kremlin has not indicated whether it will comply.

In January 2026, Russian President Vladimir Putin met with Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa in the Kremlin. Putin congratulated al-Sharaa on his work to stabilize and unify Syrian territory. The meeting's purpose was to discuss the future of Russian military bases located in Syria. The two leaders were expected to address this topic during their talks. The meeting highlights Russia's continued interest and involvement in Syria's political and military landscape.

In January 2026, Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa visited Moscow to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin, marking his second trip since seizing power in late 2024 after Bashar al-Assad fled to Russia. Al-Sharaa, a former fighter, seeks Russian aid for Syria's reconstruction and has stated Assad must face justice. Putin aims to maintain Russia's military presence in Syria, including air and naval bases. Discussions are expected to cover the evolving relationship between Russia and Syria following the change in government, though the Kremlin declined to comment on Assad's potential extradition. Recent reports indicate Russia is withdrawing forces from Qamishli as the Syrian government establishes control over the Kurdish region.