Overview

• The Kremlin received transitional president Ahmed al‑Sharaa for talks in Moscow, the first since his bloc’s win in early October.
• Putin congratulated al‑Sharaa on the parliamentary results and said Moscow is ready to renew ties.
• A Syrian government source told AFP the delegation would request Russia extradite alleged war criminals in its territory, notably Bashar al‑Assad, a claim not confirmed by Moscow.
• The agenda, according to Syrian statements, includes investment, the status of Russia’s Tartus and Hmeimim facilities, and rearming the new Syrian army, with no announced agreements.
• Assad was ousted in December 2024 and granted asylum in Russia after years of Kremlin support during the war and allegations of grave abuses.