Renewed Moscow-Damascus flights signal revival of ties after Assad's fall - analysis
Syria is expanding its airline network, adding flights from numerous countries over the past year as Damascus seeks to reconnect with the region and Europe.
A Syrian Airlines flight from Moscow touched down at Damascus International Airport on Sunday, marking the first civilian flight between the two cities since the fall of the Assad regime. According to Syrian state media SANA, this flight signifies the resumption of Syrian-Russian air services. This development comes after Russia and Syria reached an agreement that will restore Syrian control over two strategic bases in northwestern Syria, previously overseen by Russian forces.
Additionally, Russia is set to relinquish control of these bases, which will now be utilized as joint training centers for both nations, according to Syria's Foreign Ministry.
Russian forces have long backed the Assad regime, which gained prominence in the aftermath of the Arab Spring in 2012. Russia's intervention in Syria began in 2015, providing military support to Assad, including aircraft and troops. This Russian backing of Assad has been viewed by many as a symbol of the regime's brutal tactics. However, Russia's involvement in Syria appears to have been a strategic move to assert its influence on the international stage.
In 2022, Russia launched an invasion of Ukraine, potentially diverting its attention from Syria. Initially, Russia appeared confident that the Assad regime would remain stable. However, in November 2024, the Syrian rebels in Idlib launched a swift offensive, resulting in the regime's collapse. It remains uncertain how the new Syrian government will coexist with Russia.
Initially, some speculated that the new administration might seek to oust the Russians. Nonetheless, Syrian leaders have been actively seeking ways to maintain positive relations with Russia despite the potential for opposition.
The new agreement between Syria and Russia appears to be a result of this diplomatic outreach. Syria has been striving to establish positive ties with various countries worldwide, and the new government has generally been embraced by most nations. Israel, the only country that has not reached out to the new Syrian administration, may face challenges in adjusting to this evolving dynamic.
Written by urgent.news from Jerusalem Post's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
