Russia's First Official Visit to Syria After Bashar Assad's Regime

syria - Russia conducted its first official visit to Damascus after the overthrow of Bashar Assad's regime in Syria.

Russia's Official Visit to Syria

Russia's delegation, including Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov and Special Envoy Alexander Lavrentiev, arrived in Damascus yesterday morning. The visit is seen as a new beginning in the relations between the two countries.

Military Base Negotiations

While the Russian Foreign Ministry did not provide detailed information, Russian news agencies stated that the visit signifies a new chapter in the bilateral relations. It was emphasized that Syria is in need of serious economic support and Russia can play a positive role in the post-Assad era. The possibility of Russia providing humanitarian aid such as grain and energy resources to Syria in exchange for the future use of the Tartus port military section by Russia was discussed.

What Does Damascus Want?

After the overthrow of Bashar Assad's regime on December 8, 2024, Moscow highlighted that the Astana trio of Russia, Turkey, and Iran could continue their efforts for the stabilization of Syria. The new Syrian administration has demanded the return of billions of dollars of national wealth that Bashar Assad allegedly transferred to Russia to allow Russia to become one of the active actors in the region again.