Assad’s Fate on the Table: Syria, Russia Negotiate Extradition Amid Political Upheaval
Abu Qasra further highlighted that Moscow’s stance toward Syria’s new leadership has improved in recent weeks. He revealed that discussions over Assad’s fate took place between Syrian officials and Russian Deputy Foreign Minister
Feb. 7, 2025
ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – Syrian Defense Minister Murhaf Abu Qasra confirmed that Damascus has discussed the extradition of former President Bashar al-Assad with Russia’s Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov during his recent visit to Syria.
According to The Washington Post, Abu Qasra stated that Syria remains open to engaging with Russia, particularly regarding the future of its military presence in the country.
He noted that if Moscow decides to withdraw its naval and air bases, Damascus will seek an agreement that serves Syria’s national interests.
Russia’s Military Presence in Syria Under Discussion
The Syrian defense minister emphasized that his government has not ruled out maintaining Russian military bases in Tartus and Khmeimim, provided their continued presence aligns with Syria’s strategic goals.
Abu Qasra further highlighted that Moscow’s stance toward Syria’s new leadership has improved in recent weeks. He revealed that discussions over Assad’s fate took place between Syrian officials and Bogdanov, the Russian Deputy Foreign Minister and Special Presidential Envoy to the Middle East and Africa, during his visit to Damascus.
Bogdanov Confirms Russia’s Support for Syria’s New Leadership
On Dec. 28, 2025, Bogdanov spoke in an interview with Russia’s RT channel, stating that his discussions with Syrian Interim President Ahmad al-Sharaa and other senior officials were positive, covering a wide range of political, diplomatic, security, and economic issues.
Bogdanov confirmed that Russia understands the current political transition in Syria and has assured Damascus of continued cooperation, particularly in forming a transitional government.
He also expressed gratitude to Syrian authorities for ensuring that Russian citizens and institutions have not faced any hostility or adverse situations amid the country’s leadership change.
Moscow has expressed its intent to maintain a strategic military foothold in Syria, particularly in its naval base in Tartus and airbase in Latakia, despite ongoing geopolitical realignments in the region.
As Syria navigates a critical transition period, Russian-Syrian relations continue to evolve, with security, diplomatic, and military cooperation shaping the next phase of bilateral engagement.