• Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa meets Vladimir Putin in Moscow.
• Talks focus on the future of Russian military bases in Syria.
• Putin emphasizes support for rebuilding Syria's war-torn economy.
• The Kremlin maintains ties despite the transition from Assad to al-Sharaa.
• Russia's presence is crucial for its influence in the Mediterranean region.

Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa met with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow to discuss the future of Russian military bases in Syria, a critical concern for Moscow following the toppling of longtime ally Bashar al-Assad. The meeting, confirmed by Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov, was aimed at securing Russia's military presence at the Hmeimim airbase and Tartus naval base, the only such bases outside of the former Soviet Union. Al-Sharaa's visit is part of Russia's broader strategy to establish relations with the new Syrian leadership, which has taken a pragmatic approach towards Moscow despite the challenges posed by Assad's continued sheltering in Russia. This reflects the shifting power dynamics in the region after Assad's removal by al-Sharaa's forces in December 2024, according to Al Jazeera, Los Angeles Times, and Channel News Asia.

During the session, Putin emphasized Russia's role in supporting Syria's efforts to restore its territorial integrity, particularly regarding areas controlled by Kurdish forces. He expressed readiness to assist in rebuilding Syria’s economy, noting that Russian economic operators are prepared to engage in reconstruction efforts. Al-Sharaa reciprocated with appreciation for Putin's support in stabilizing Syria, marking a significant shift in relations from the previous regime. Peskov had indicated that the discussions would revolve around the military presence and how it aligns with ongoing efforts to restore order in Syria, as reported by Al Jazeera and Los Angeles Times.

Despite the warm exchanges between al-Sharaa and Putin, the Kremlin's ongoing support for the ousted Assad and his family poses significant challenges for fully normalizing relations with the new Syrian leadership. Al-Sharaa has consistently requested Assad's extradition, highlighting lingering tensions from the transition. The recent Russian withdrawal from Qamishli airport further complicates the landscape as Moscow seeks to retain its critical foothold in the Mediterranean amid geopolitical shifts in the region. The situation remains fluid, with Russia's strategic interests driving its diplomatic engagements with al-Sharaa, according to Channel News Asia.