Russia and Syrian Rebels in Fragile Cooperation After Assad's Ouster

Following the fall of Bashar al-Assad, Russia negotiates with former rebel forces to maintain its military presence in Syria.

Russian forces are in talks with Syria's new leadership, led by the former rebel group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), to determine the future of their military bases in the country.
HTS has taken control of Syria after a rapid offensive deposed President Bashar al-Assad, who has since fled to Russia with asylum granted by Moscow.
Russia has repositioned its troops and equipment, consolidating operations at the Hmeimim airbase and Tartous port while evacuating other bases in Syria.
HTS has expressed a pragmatic approach to relations with Russia, focusing on strategic interests and seeking international legitimacy for Syria's new government.
The Kremlin has stated that the future of Russia's military presence in Syria remains uncertain, as discussions with the new Syrian authorities continue.