Russian Delegation Visits Syria for First Time Since Assad's Ouster

The visit focuses on securing Russian military bases and redefining ties with Syria's new leadership after Assad's December overthrow.

A Russian delegation, including Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov and envoy Alexander Lavrentyev, arrived in Damascus for talks with Syria's interim government.
This marks the first official Russian visit to Syria since Bashar al-Assad fled to Russia in December following a swift rebel advance.
Russia seeks to maintain its strategic military bases in Tartus and Hmeimim, though a commercial port contract with a Russian firm was recently canceled by Syria's new administration.
The new Syrian leadership, led by Ahmad al-Sharaa, has expressed interest in preserving ties with Moscow while renegotiating certain agreements to better align with Syria’s interests.
The visit comes as Syria's interim government engages in broader diplomatic efforts, including meetings with Palestinian and Saudi officials, and as the EU considers easing sanctions on the country.