Syria seeks continued Russian support amid post-Assad transition

Thursday 31 July 2025 - 14:30

In his first official visit to Moscow since the fall of former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad in December, Syrian Foreign Minister Assaad el-Chaibani expressed a desire for continued Russian support as Syria navigates a complex political and security landscape.

"This is a time filled with challenges and threats, but also an opportunity to build a united and strong Syria. Naturally, we want Russia to be by our side on this path," Chaibani stated during a joint press conference with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov.

Russia had been a key ally of Assad, notably intervening militarily in 2015 to support his regime against rebel forces. Following Assad’s ouster and subsequent refuge in Russia, the new U.S.-backed Syrian leadership has sought to maintain relations with Moscow.

The two ministers are expected to discuss the future of Russia's two strategic military installations in Syria: the naval base in Tartus and the Hmeimim airbase on the Mediterranean coast. Lavrov reaffirmed Russia’s readiness to assist with Syria’s post-conflict reconstruction, underscoring Moscow’s long-term interests in the region.

The meeting highlights the evolving dynamics of international alliances in Syria as the country attempts to recover from years of war and political upheaval.