Russia and Syria signalled on Thursday (July 31, 2025) they would bolster ties and review agreements made under the previous pro-Moscow government of Bashar al-Assad amid uncertainty over the future of two Russian military bases in the country.
What does Assad’s fall mean for Russia
Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani appealed for Russia's support at talks in Moscow, where Assad had reportedly fled after he was ousted after a lightning offensive by rebels last year.
It was the first time a high-ranking Syrian official visited Russia, formerly Assad's biggest backer, since he was overthrown.
"Of course, we are interested in having Russia by our side," Mr. Shaibani told his Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov, but said there were factors complicating relations.
