Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa is scheduled to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow on Wednesday, as Russia seeks to secure the future of its remaining military bases in Syria.
The two leaders previously met in October, marking their first encounter since Sharaa’s rebel forces toppled long-time Moscow ally Bashar al-Assad in 2024, adopting a conciliatory tone during discussions on regional stability.
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However, Russia’s continued sheltering of Assad and his wife remains a contentious issue, with Sharaa repeatedly pressing Moscow for their extradition, reflecting ongoing tensions despite diplomatic gestures between the two nations.
Sharaa has also strengthened ties with US President Donald Trump, who recently described him as “highly respected” and praised ongoing cooperation, signaling a shift in international alliances and influence in Syria.
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Russia’s military presence has diminished, with forces withdrawing from Qamishli airport, leaving only the Hmeimim airbase and Tartus naval base, its only outposts outside the former Soviet Union, highlighting Moscow’s reduced regional reach.
The meeting is expected to focus on bilateral relations, development prospects, and the Middle East situation, while Western powers remain cautious as Sharaa’s northeast offensive could risk the resurgence of Islamic State prisoners.