Putin and Syria’s New Leader Seek Ties After Assad’s Fall
Following the ouster of Bashar al-Assad, Russia’s President Vladimir Putin and Syria’s new leader Ahmed al-Sharaa are exploring ways to strengthen ties. Al-Sharaa, a former rebel commander, is requesting Russian assistance for Syria’s reconstruction while insisting that Assad must face justice. The Kremlin has acknowledged the talks but remains cautious.
Mary Adofo
In the wake of the dramatic fall of Bashar al-Assad, President Vladimir V. Putin of Russia and Syria’s new leader, President Ahmed al-Sharaa, are exploring avenues to rebuild bilateral relations. Assad, who was backed by Russia, was ousted after seizing power in late 2024 and rapidly consolidating control across Syria, only to be forced into a gilded exile in Russia.
President al-Sharaa, once a Qaeda fighter and later a rebel commander turned statesman, has taken a pragmatic approach toward Moscow despite years of conflict under Russian airstrikes. He emphasized that Syria cannot afford to antagonize major world powers and has formally requested Russian assistance in the country’s reconstruction.
At the same time, al-Sharaa has insisted that Assad must face justice for his actions, signaling a potential reckoning for the former dictator.
The Kremlin, through spokesman Dmitri S. Pes, has acknowledged the overtures but stopped short of committing to specific support, reflecting Moscow’s cautious stance as it navigates the new political landscape in Syria.
