As Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's regime faces significant setbacks, Putin emphasizes Russia's potential role and considers the future of military bases and alliances.
Putin Addresses Challenges in Syria Following Assad's Fall
Putin Addresses Challenges in Syria Following Assad's Fall
Amidst the collapse of Syrian leadership, Russian President Putin reassures that Moscow maintains strategic interests in the region.
In a recent press conference, President Vladimir V. Putin of Russia addressed questions about the tumultuous state of affairs in Syria following the fall of his ally, Bashar al-Assad. Despite the unexpected turn of events, Putin attempted to frame the situation not as a defeat for Russia but as a moment of re-evaluation regarding Russia's presence in Syria. He stated that considerations about maintaining military bases in the region were underway, noting that many Middle Eastern countries and factions in Syria preferred continued Russian involvement.
Putin's comments come on the heels of the Assad regime's collapse on December 8, prompting speculation about Russia's standing in the international arena. Analysts posit that this downturn in Assad’s power could significantly affect Russia’s influence, particularly if it leads to the loss of military assets like the Tartus naval base and Hmeimim airbase, which have been crucial for projecting Russian power throughout Africa and the Mediterranean.
Since Russia's military intervention in the Syrian civil war in 2015, the Kremlin has heavily supported Assad through extensive airstrikes. However, in light of recent aggressive moves from rebel forces, Putin acknowledged that Iranian and pro-Iranian fighters supporting Assad had opted to request help in evacuating instead of mounting a defense against the advancing rebels. This shift illustrates the evolving landscape in Syria that will require careful navigation by Russia to secure its geopolitical interests moving forward.
Putin's comments come on the heels of the Assad regime's collapse on December 8, prompting speculation about Russia's standing in the international arena. Analysts posit that this downturn in Assad’s power could significantly affect Russia’s influence, particularly if it leads to the loss of military assets like the Tartus naval base and Hmeimim airbase, which have been crucial for projecting Russian power throughout Africa and the Mediterranean.
Since Russia's military intervention in the Syrian civil war in 2015, the Kremlin has heavily supported Assad through extensive airstrikes. However, in light of recent aggressive moves from rebel forces, Putin acknowledged that Iranian and pro-Iranian fighters supporting Assad had opted to request help in evacuating instead of mounting a defense against the advancing rebels. This shift illustrates the evolving landscape in Syria that will require careful navigation by Russia to secure its geopolitical interests moving forward.
