The Kremlin has hosted the first official meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Syria’s new leader, Ahmed al-Sharaa, who came to power following the overthrow of Bashar al-Assad’s regime at the end of 2024. The main topic of the talks was the future of Russia’s military bases in Syria, as well as the format of bilateral cooperation in this new phase.

The Kremlin officially announced that the parties discussed the future of the Khmeimim airbase, the naval facility in Tartus, and the possible presence near Qamishli airport in northeastern Syria. According to the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the discussions included a “possible restructuring” of the military sites. However, private channels suggest Moscow’s main goal is to preserve its key positions.

At the opening of the meeting, al-Sharaa stated that Damascus “respects all agreements concluded with Moscow” and seeks to “restore and reinterpret relations” in a new form – based on Syria’s independence and sovereignty. The word “reinterpret” signals a willingness to strike a negotiated balance: not blind loyalty, but mutual benefit.

One of the most sensitive issues is al-Sharaa’s demand to bring Bashar al-Assad to justice for alleged crimes against the Syrian people. Damascus may officially request that Moscow extradite Assad, but the Kremlin is unlikely to agree, citing the risk of undermining trust in Russia’s guarantees to other allies and partners. Notably, al-Sharaa has so far avoided directly mentioning Assad’s extradition in public, instead emphasizing adherence to existing agreements and protection of Syria’s interests.

Beyond the military dimension, the meeting carried strong economic motives. The two leaders discussed Russian participation in rebuilding Syria’s energy, transportation, and infrastructure networks, as well as oil and gas extraction projects. Russia has previously announced plans to use its remaining bases as logistical hubs for delivering aid to Africa by sea and air. The two countries are expected to soon convene an intergovernmental commission to coordinate trade and investment cooperation.

Putin, in turn, welcomed Syria’s recent parliamentary elections, calling them a “success” and a step toward national consolidation.

It is worth noting that the contract granting a Russian contractor management rights over the Tartus port was annulled by the new Syrian government. Following the coup, Russian ships withdrew from the port, although some naval presence remained close to Syrian territorial waters. The Khmeimim base, which had served as Russia’s main air hub in Syria, also came under multiple attacks in 2025. In particular, on May 20-21, 2025, the group “Burkan al-Furat” launched an armed assault on the base, resulting in casualties on both sides. Legally, the Khmeimim base operates under a 2015 agreement with Syria, but its legitimacy has been disputed since Assad’s fall.

The overthrow of Assad and the rise of al-Sharaa mark not just a domestic change of power, but also a shift in the architecture of influence in the Middle East. Russia has lost one of its core allies, forcing it to search for ways to retain its foothold.

On one hand, Moscow is keen to preserve its strategic positions in Syria – they provide access to the Mediterranean Sea, control over regional air corridors, and leverage in regional affairs. On the other hand, Russia faces resource constraints, continued involvement in the war in Ukraine, and the need to balance relations with new regional actors.

Pressure from Israel cannot be ruled out either, as it calls for the demilitarization of southern Syria. Regional powers and the United States are also questioning Russia’s role under Syria’s new political order. The key point, however, is that al-Sharaa, despite his tough rhetoric, appears willing to keep Russia’s bases in place – as long as they serve Syria’s national interests.

The loss of established allies and the need to restructure its presence may weaken Russia’s western reach in the region. Still, Moscow could leverage participation in Syria’s reconstruction to maintain economic influence. Turkey, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the U.S. all see the new situation as an opportunity to strengthen their own foothold in Syria. For al-Sharaa, the priority is to show that he is not just a revolutionary leader but also a political leader capable of building diplomatic bridges and maintaining control over key strategic gateways.

Expert Group CCBS

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16.10.2025 06:46