Syria’s New President to Meet Russia’s Putin in Moscow Amid Shifting Middle East Ties

Post by : Saif Nasser

Syria’s President Ahmed al-Sharaa is set to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow on Wednesday, according to Syria’s state news agency SANA. This visit marks Sharaa’s first official trip to Russia since his rebel forces overthrew former leader Bashar al-Assad last year. The meeting is seen as an important step in reshaping Syria’s relationship with one of its long-time allies.

A New Chapter in Syria-Russia Relations

Before his fall, Assad had been a close friend of Moscow for over a decade. Russia supported his rule through military aid and diplomatic backing. But everything changed when Sharaa, once a senior government official who later led a powerful rebel movement, took control of Damascus in late 2024.

Now, President Sharaa’s upcoming visit signals a new phase in ties between Damascus and Moscow. Syrian officials say both sides will talk about regional peace, trade, and military cooperation. Russia still runs a naval base in Tartous and an airbase in Hmeimim, both located in western Syria. These bases give Moscow strong influence in the eastern Mediterranean region — something President Putin is unlikely to give up easily.

Discussion Points: Military Bases and Political Trials

A Syrian government source told local media that Sharaa’s meeting with Putin will include talks about the future of Russia’s military presence in Syria. The same source said Sharaa will formally ask Russia to hand over Bashar al-Assad to face trial for alleged crimes against Syrians.

This is a sensitive issue. Assad, after losing power, fled the country and received asylum in Russia. The request to extradite him could test how far Moscow is willing to go in supporting Syria’s new leadership.

The Path from Rebel to President

Ahmed al-Sharaa’s rise to power is one of the most surprising stories in the Middle East in recent years. Once known for his links to extreme rebel factions, including a former branch of al Qaeda, he eventually gained support from other opposition groups who wanted to remove Assad.

In December 2024, Sharaa’s forces entered Damascus, taking control of the capital. Assad’s government collapsed soon after, ending more than a decade of his rule. Since then, Sharaa has worked to present himself as a unifying figure — someone who can rebuild Syria after years of war.

Moscow’s Balancing Act

For Russia, Sharaa’s visit comes at a time of complex challenges. Moscow still wants to maintain its strategic influence in the Middle East, especially in Syria, where its military bases are key to its global power projection. However, it must now balance relations with Sharaa’s new government while protecting its past commitments to Assad.

In the months following Assad’s fall, President Putin and Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov have held several meetings with Syrian officials. In July 2025, they welcomed Syria’s new foreign minister, Asaad al-Shibani, to Moscow for talks on rebuilding diplomatic and military cooperation.

Arab Summit Postponed, But Dialogue Continues

Sharaa’s Moscow trip comes even though an Arab summit that he was scheduled to attend in Russia has been postponed. Despite this, both governments agreed the bilateral visit was too important to delay.

Analysts say the talks could help shape Syria’s foreign policy direction under Sharaa — especially as the new leadership seeks recognition from other Arab countries and Western powers.

Regional Implications

The meeting is expected to focus on more than just Syria and Russia. Observers believe the two leaders will also discuss Israel’s continued air strikes in Syria and the broader conflict in the Middle East. Russia has often condemned Israeli attacks, while Sharaa’s government has accused Israel of targeting its new military facilities.

There may also be discussions about reconstruction projects, as Syria tries to rebuild its cities and economy after years of war. Moscow has the resources and expertise to help in energy, construction, and defense — areas Sharaa’s administration hopes to strengthen.

Symbol of Changing Power

Sharaa’s visit to Moscow highlights how quickly power has shifted in Syria. A year ago, Assad was still seen as one of Moscow’s closest allies. Today, his former rival sits in the presidential palace and prepares to meet Putin as an equal partner.

Experts say Russia’s decision to host Sharaa shows its willingness to adapt to the new political landscape. For Putin, maintaining a strong presence in Syria — no matter who leads it — is crucial for his country’s influence in the region.

A Test for Sharaa’s Leadership

This visit will also be a test for President Sharaa. Domestically, he faces a country still recovering from years of civil war and struggling with poverty, damaged infrastructure, and political divisions. Internationally, he must convince Russia and other powers that he can bring stability and rebuild trust.

If the Moscow talks succeed, they could mark the start of a new diplomatic path for Syria — one that balances independence with strategic partnerships. But if the issue of Assad’s extradition creates friction, it might reopen old wounds between Damascus and Moscow.

Looking Ahead

For now, all eyes are on Wednesday’s meeting in Moscow. What happens there could shape not just Syria’s future, but also the balance of power across the Middle East. Both nations appear ready to move forward — but carefully.