Story perspectives

Syrian Leader Seeks Ties with Russia Post-Assad

10/15/2025

Summary

Story summary

Syrian interim president Ahmed al-Sharaa met Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow on October 15, the first meeting since Bashar al-Assad's ousting.
Al-Sharaa called for restoring and redefining relations with Russia, a longtime ally that previously supported Assad.
Putin praised Syria's parliamentary elections as a success that would strengthen political ties.
They discussed economic cooperation and the status of Russian military bases in Syria, underscoring Moscow's influence in the region.

History

Historical Context

Russia's military intervention in the Syrian Civil War began on September 30, 2015, following a request from Bashar al-Assad's regime, which controlled only 26% of the territory. Over 5,000 airstrikes were conducted, significantly bolstering Assad's forces against opposition groups. This intervention not only aimed to stabilize Assad's government but also to expand Russia's influence in the Middle East, reshaping regional geopolitics.

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Story summary

Syrian interim president Ahmed al-Sharaa met Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow on October 15, the first meeting since Bashar al-Assad's ousting.
Al-Sharaa called for restoring and redefining relations with Russia, a longtime ally that previously supported Assad.
Putin praised Syria's parliamentary elections as a success that would strengthen political ties.
They discussed economic cooperation and the status of Russian military bases in Syria, underscoring Moscow's influence in the region.

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