Russia’s president Vladimir Putin hosted Syria’s president Bashar al-Assad in Moscow this Wednesday, underscoring a long-standing alliance that has endured through the years. Assad, one of Moscow’s closest partners, traveled with a substantial delegation, reflecting the depth of bilateral ties. Following the talks, Assad echoed Kremlin messaging and reiterated support for Russia’s actions in Ukraine, referring to them as a special operation and depicting Western responses as inconsistent and historically biased toward older Nazi elements that, he argued, have resurfaced in contemporary sanctions and policy.
For the Moscow meeting, Assad brought along several senior ministers to the Russian capital. The Russian side included Mikhail Bogdanov, deputy foreign minister and the Kremlin’s special envoy to the Middle East and Africa; Syria’s ambassador to Russia, Bashar al-Jafari; and Russia’s ambassador to Syria, Alexander Yefimov, among others. The gathering marked a significant moment in the ongoing coordination between the two governments as they navigate regional and global dynamics.
Reportedly the visit held importance beyond the usual diplomatic exchanges, as it followed Syria’s involvement in the broader regional conflict and came in the wake of humanitarian crises, including the devastating earthquake that struck Turkey and Syria on February 6. Assad expressed gratitude for the assistance from the Russian government and its agencies, noting that relief efforts helped reduce casualties and damage. Damascus criticized Western support and sanctions, arguing they impeded Syria’s recovery and resilience in the face of ongoing hardship.
Participation in the Syrian civil war
Putin addressed the evolving situation in Syria as a consequence of joint, sustained efforts by Russia and Syria, highlighting the pivotal role of the Russian Armed Forces. He asserted that significant progress had been achieved through Russian contributions in the fight against what he described as international terrorism, and he credited Assad with maintaining stability in the country. The two governments have backed pro-government forces against pro-democracy rebels and jihadist elements since the conflict began in 2011, a conflict that remains unresolved in many areas.
Particularly noted were the Russian air and ground operations that targeted rebel positions, including strikes close to civilian infrastructure. These military actions have shaped Syria’s current political alignment and regional posture, reinforcing Moscow’s influence in the Middle East. The alliance is evident in their shared diplomacy on the international stage, including positions at the United Nations that frequently reflect Moscow’s perspective, as well as the stance on territorial matters Russia has asserted in its own geopolitical calculations.
Assad’s regime has benefited from continued Russian support, including access to bases in Syria such as Hmeimim and Tartus, which have served as strategic hubs for operations and signaling strength in the Mediterranean. These facilities symbolize a durable security partnership that has reinforced Damascus’s capacity to sustain its governance amid regional volatility. The collaboration between Damascus and Moscow has persisted through shifting regional alignments, illustrating how their alliance shapes both domestic policy and regional security dynamics.