**Putin Talks to Syria’s New Leader**
Russian President Vladimir Putin had a phone call with Syria’s new leader, Ahmad al-Sharaa. This happened on February 12, after the fall of former President Bashar al-Assad.
The Kremlin said the conversation was friendly and worked out well. They talked about trade, education, and other areas where they can work together. Both leaders agreed to keep talking.
Syrian TV reported that al-Sharaa said Syria will still have a strong relationship with Russia. He also said he’s willing to work with anyone who can help make the country safe and stable again.
Putin offered to help Syria with its economy and invited the Syrian foreign minister to visit Moscow. This call came after a Russian delegation visited Damascus, which was the first time since Assad was ousted.
**Russia’s Role in Syria**
This conversation took place after Russia started withdrawing assets from Syria. This raised doubts about whether Russia would still have a military presence there.
Syria’s Defense Minister said on February 6 that Russia can keep its naval base and airbase if they offer something in return.
Russia sent troops to Syria in 2015 to support Assad’s regime. With Moscow’s backing, hundreds of thousands of Syrians were imprisoned, tortured, or killed.
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