Information
Russian TV broadcasted a video on Thursday showing Syrian President Bashar Assad meeting Russian President Vladimir Putin at the Kremlin. The clip revealed minimal details about their conversation. During the meeting, Putin sought Assad’s perspective on the conflicts in the Middle East, expressing concern over the escalating tensions, which he noted also affect Syria directly. Assad acknowledged the challenging situations both countries have faced and overcome, emphasising the importance of their current meeting amidst global and regional events.
The Kremlin confirmed the meeting occurred on Wednesday, though specifics of the discussions were not disclosed. A potential topic was the possible restoration of ties between Syria and Turkey, a relationship that has been severed since 2011. Both Assad and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan have shown willingness to restore relations, with Erdogan prioritising the return of refugees to Syria. Historically, Putin and Assad have been close allies, with Russia playing a significant role in stabilising Syria during its prolonged civil war. Russian military support has been crucial in Assad’s recapture of territories, and Russia continues to maintain military bases in Syria. The leaders last met in person in March 2023 in Moscow.
Source: AP, AFP, Reuters
So what
It is likely that Assad is in Moscow to ensure that they maintain support from Russia for their security. As mentioned in the article, they are heavily reliant on Russian support, and it is possible without it that the Syrian civil war would have ended differently. In addition to security due to their isolation it is likely that Syria looks to Russia for a range of imports, including food and medical supplies. There is also the possibility that Russia will convey Turkey’s message of their intent to return a large number of Syrian refugees currently in Turkey, something Syria will likely not be a fan of with an already strained economy.
Follow us to join the intelligence community!