Russian Delegation Arrives in Syria
In a significant diplomatic move, the first official Russian delegation has arrived in Syria since the ousting of Bashar al-Assad, a key ally of Moscow. Reported by Russian news agencies on Tuesday, the delegation is led by Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov, who also serves as President Vladimir Putin’s special representative for the Middle East and Africa. Accompanying him is Alexander Lavrentyev, the president’s special envoy for Syria.
This visit marks the first time Russian officials have traveled to Damascus since Assad fled the capital in December, following a swift advance by rebel forces across the country. Russia has historically been one of Assad’s strongest supporters, intervening in the Syrian civil war in 2015 to bolster his regime, and has maintained a strategic interest in the region.
Russia’s Strategic Interests in Syria
With the current political landscape shifting, Russia is now focused on securing its military foothold in Syria. The naval base in Tartus and the air base at Khmeimim, situated along Syria’s Mediterranean coast, represent Moscow’s only military installations outside the former Soviet Union. Ensuring these bases are protected under the new Syrian authorities is a priority for Russian officials.
The situation is further complicated by the presence of the Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), which is led by Syria’s interim leader Ahmed al-Sharaa. This group, classified as a terrorist organization by Russia, has historical ties to Al-Qaeda’s Syrian faction but has recently adopted a more moderate approach. In a recent interview with Al-Arabiya, Sharaa emphasized the profound strategic interests that bind Russia and Syria.
The Future of Russian-Syrian Relations
Sharaa highlighted the deep-rooted connections between the two nations, stating, “All of Syria’s arms are of Russian origin, and many power plants are managed by Russian experts.” His remarks indicate a desire for continued Russian presence in Syria, countering suggestions that Russia might withdraw, as some factions wish.
In addition to the Russian delegation, December saw visits from US and Ukrainian diplomats to Syria’s new leadership. This highlights the shifting dynamics in international relations concerning the Syrian conflict and underlines the importance of Russia’s continued involvement in the region.
