Having labelled Syrian rebels ‘terrorists’, Moscow is now making diplomatic efforts to protect its military assets in the country

Summary

Following the collapse of the Assad regime, Russia is seeking to secure its military bases in Syria through diplomatic engagement with the new rebel leadership.

The Kremlin is softening its rhetoric towards the Islamist group HTS, which led the revolt against Assad, and has reportedly received assurances from the Syrian opposition regarding the safety of Russian military installations.

This shift in approach suggests a potential strategy similar to Russia’s engagement with the Taliban in Afghanistan.