Syria's New Government Deepens Military Ties With Russia in Post-Assad Era

A new chapter for Syria, but its old alliance with Russia is proving more durable than ever. Top Syrian ministers met with President Vladimir Putin in Moscow to expand 'strategic cooperation' in military industries, signaling a significant deepening of ties after the ouster of Bashar al-Assad.

According to Syria’s state-run SANA news agency, the meeting on Tuesday, December 23rd, with Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan Al-Shaibani and Defence Minister Murhaf Abu Qasra had a “particular emphasis” on defence, alongside other political and economic issues.

Modernizing the Syrian Army

The discussions reportedly covered a wide range of defence matters, including strengthening the Syrian army’s capabilities, modernising its equipment, transferring expertise, and cooperating on research and development. SANA reported that both sides reviewed ways “to advance military and technical partnership in a manner that strengthens the defensive capabilities of the Syrian Arab Army.”

During the meeting, Putin reaffirmed Russia’s “steadfast support” for Syria and its territorial integrity. He also renewed Moscow’s condemnation of repeated Israeli violations of Syrian territory, describing them as a “direct threat to regional security,” according to the agency.

Russia's Strategic Calculus in a New Syria

This visit is the latest move by Syria’s new authorities to solidify relations since the removal of longtime ruler Bashar al-Assad last December. Russia, a key backer of the Assad regime, is eager to build strong relations with the new government in Damascus.

A primary goal for Moscow is securing continued access to its critical military installations: the Khmeimim airbase and the Tartous naval base. In October, Syria’s new president, Ahmed al-Sharaa, reassured Russia by pledging to honor all past deals, effectively securing the future of the two bases.