In a quick turn of events Vladimir Putin decided to give shelter to Bashar al-Assad and his family after a fast-moving rebel attack changed Syrian leadership. The ex-president is now in Moscow according to un-named Kremlin sources
The power shift hits hard at both Moscow and Tehran who spent over a decade (since the start of civil conflict in 2011) trying to keep Assad in charge‚ despite Western push-back. Dmitry Peskov‚ speaking for the Kremlin confirmed its Putins choice but didnt share more info about the former leaders whereabouts
The long-standing Moscow-Damascus partnership — dating back to mid-20th century when Hafez al-Assad picked the Soviet side against US-backed Israel — now faces big changes. Russian military spots in Syria include:
- Hmeimim airbase in Latakia
- Naval base at Tartous coast
- Supply points for African operations
“Its too early to discuss“ Peskov said about talks with Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (former al-Qaeda group) who now control most areas; Moscow plans to speak with new leadership about keeping its bases. The Kremlin source also pointed out that Russian forces are taking safety steps while reaching out to Turkey and other local countries for talks
The situation needs careful handling — Russian Mediterranean access through Tartous remains key as global issues grow more complex: from Ukraine to Middle-East hot-spots