Russian President Vladimir Putin held a phone call with Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa on Wednesday, marking the first direct communication between Moscow and Damascus since the fall of the Assad regime in December 2024. The conversation, described by the Kremlin as an “in-depth exchange of views,” focused on the current situation in Syria, bilateral relations, and Russia’s continued involvement in the country’s reconstruction.
According to a statement from the Russian presidential office, Putin reaffirmed Moscow’s commitment to “the unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of Syria,” while expressing readiness to assist in stabilizing the country’s social and economic situation. He also emphasized the need to lift international sanctions on Syria, arguing that they have “lost all meaning” following the change in power. “The two leaders agreed to continue contacts to develop bilateral cooperation,” the Kremlin said in its statement.
Russia Seeks to Retain Military Presence in Syria
The call came amid ongoing discussions regarding Russia’s military footprint in Syria. Before the fall of the Assad regime, the new Syrian administration had signaled its openness to working with Russia as a potential partner. Since then, Russian officials have sought to negotiate the future of their air and naval bases along the Syrian coast, particularly in Tartus and Latakia.
Syria’s Minister of Defense, Murhaf Abu Qasra, recently stated that Damascus was willing to allow Russian forces to maintain their presence, provided that any agreements align with Syria’s national interests. The Kremlin has acknowledged these negotiations, with Putin expressing his willingness to “reconsider agreements concluded under the former regime.”
However, British intelligence officials have warned that Russia’s decision to grant ousted President Bashar al-Assad asylum in Moscow could complicate these talks. Reports suggest that Russian forces have already begun evacuating personnel and equipment from Tartus, raising questions about the Kremlin’s long-term strategy in Syria.
Calls for Sanctions Relief & Continued Humanitarian Aid
Russian officials have intensified their calls for lifting economic sanctions imposed on Syria, arguing that they are hindering the country’s recovery. Russia’s Special Envoy to the Middle East, Mikhail Bogdanov, stated that Western-imposed restrictions have contributed to Syria’s economic crisis, affecting essential sectors such as healthcare, transportation, and agriculture.
“Our position on the issue of unilateral sanctions is well known,” Bogdanov said. “These punitive measures increase the suffering of the Syrian people and hinder reconstruction and stability efforts in the country.”
The Kremlin confirmed that Putin extended an official invitation to Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Sheibani to visit Russia, underscoring Moscow’s intent to remain a key player in Syria’s transition.
The Future of Russian-Syrian Relations
Despite Russia’s past military intervention in Syria to support the Assad regime, the new Syrian leadership has signaled a pragmatic approach to relations with Moscow. During his call with Putin, President Al-Sharaa reiterated Syria’s “openness to all parties in a way that serves the interests of the Syrian people and enhances security and stability.”
The two leaders reportedly discussed Syria’s political roadmap, including the upcoming national dialogue process aimed at fostering unity among Syria’s political, ethnic, and religious factions. Moscow has publicly backed these efforts, emphasizing the need for an inclusive intra-Syrian dialogue.
Meanwhile, unconfirmed reports suggest that Al-Sharaa has formally requested Moscow to hand over Bashar al-Assad and his close associates for prosecution. Kremlin officials have declined to comment on the matter.
As Syria moves forward with its transitional period, its evolving relationship with Russia will play a critical role in shaping the country’s economic recovery, security landscape, and international standing.
