Photo: Depositphotos
Russia, which for years has supported the Bashar al-Assad regime and ensured that it remains in power until 2024, is now actively building contacts with the new Syrian leadership. Two months ago, Moscow called them terrorists, but now the Kremlin sees an opportunity to maintain its position in the region, the Wall Street Journal reports.
Russia’s key goal is to maintain control over strategically important facilities: the naval base in Tartus and the air base in Hmeymim. They remain critical to Moscow’s ambitions to increase its influence in the Mediterranean and Africa.
As a gesture of rapprochement, Russia has already transferred $23 million in Syrian currency to the Central Bank of Syria. At the same time, Moscow has categorically refused to consider the extradition of Bashar al-Assad, who is hiding in Russia after fleeing the country.
The publication notes that Saudi Arabia and Qatar are in no hurry to finance the new Syrian government, waiting for the lifting of US sanctions imposed on the Assad regime. Instead, Russia, which is itself under international sanctions, has gained a strategic advantage here.
Moscow is considering participating in the reconstruction of Syria’s infrastructure, which could be a formal compensation for its support of the previous government. While the Kremlin is looking for a diplomatic victory amid the protracted war in Ukraine, the new Syrian leaders are seeking to expand their circle of allies to reduce their dependence on Ankara.
Analysts suggest that right now is the perfect time for Damascus and Moscow to conclude strategic agreements that will help both sides strengthen their positions in the Middle East.
