MOSCOW – Syria’s interim leader made his way to Moscow on Wednesday, marking his second trip in under four months. The discussions are anticipated to revolve around the future of Russian military installations in Syria.

Interim President Ahmad al-Sharaa’s initial visit to Russia took place in October. He led a rapid rebel advance in December 2024 that successfully removed former Syrian President Bashar Assad from power. Assad, who had long been backed by Moscow during Syria’s brutal civil war, was forced out.

Russia, which has been preoccupied with the conflict in Ukraine and maintains a limited military presence in Syria, chose not to oppose the rebel takeover. Instead, it offered asylum to Assad and his family after their escape from Syria.

Despite their opposing stances during the civil war, the interim government in Damascus appears eager to establish stronger relations with Moscow. This move seems aimed at leveraging Russian support for rebuilding the war-torn nation and diversifying Syria’s foreign relations.

For Russia, retaining its naval and air bases along Syria’s coastline is paramount. These bases, situated outside the former Soviet Union, are vital for Russia’s continued military influence in the Mediterranean. Russian officials are hopeful for an agreement that would allow them to retain control of the Hmeimim air base and the naval facility in Tartus.

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov indicated that the upcoming talks between President Vladimir Putin and al-Sharaa will address “all issues related to our military’s presence in Syria.”

In recent days, Russian forces have begun pulling out of positions in northeastern Syria in an area still controlled by the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces after the group lost most of its territory in an offensive by government forces.