Syrian President to Make First Official Visit to Moscow for Talks

Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa is scheduled to make his first official visit to Moscow for talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin, according to announcements from both governments. The Kremlin confirmed the upcoming meeting will address current conditions and future prospects for Russian-Syrian relations across political, trade, economic, and humanitarian domains, alongside discussions about recent Middle Eastern developments.

Bilateral Relations Review

The Syrian Arab News Agency characterized the visit as aimed at reorganizing bilateral relations and enhancing political and economic cooperation between Damascus and Moscow. President Sharaa's itinerary also includes meetings with Syrian community representatives residing in Russia, reflecting efforts to maintain connections with the Syrian diaspora following the political transition in Damascus.

Military Cooperation and Regional Strategy

The diplomatic engagement follows Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's recent comments indicating Syria's interest in maintaining Russian military bases while potentially repurposing them for different operational requirements. Lavrov's statements to Arab journalists acknowledged evolving regional realities that might necessitate adjustments to Russia's military presence in Syria, which has played a crucial role in supporting Damascus throughout the conflict period.

Ongoing Engagement and Political Context

The Moscow summit continues diplomatic momentum established during Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak's September visit to Damascus, where energy cooperation and humanitarian assistance featured prominently in discussions. The meeting represents continued Russian support for Syria's transitional administration, which assumed power in January following former President Bashar al-Assad's departure to Russia in late 2024, ending decades of Baath Party governance.