In a significant diplomatic move, Russian President Vladimir Putin has taken steps to mediate between Syria and Turkey, whose relations were severed in 2012.
Preparing for Peace
Putin hosted Syrian President Bashar al-Assad in a meeting at the Kremlin. The encounter, kept relatively low-profile by the Kremlin, is seen as a preparatory step toward potential peace negotiations between Assad and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, according to URA.
The meeting between Putin and Assad, which was marked by a warm handshake, highlighted the complex and often tense dynamics of the region. Putin expressed a keen interest in Assad's perspective on the evolving situation in the Middle East, particularly as tensions remain high.
Assad acknowledged the longstanding and resilient relationship between Russia and Syria, noting that this year marks the 80th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations.
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Peacetalks in August
The Kremlin released few details about the discussions. However, Dmitry Peskov, the Kremlin's spokesperson, confirmed that the leaders exchanged views on regional issues, including the upcoming peace talks between Assad and Erdogan.
These talks, potentially set for August or September, would mark a significant step toward normalizing relations between Syria and Turkey after more than a decade of conflict.
According to experts, Assad's visit to Moscow was crucial for aligning positions with Putin before engaging in direct talks with Erdogan. The potential reconciliation is seen as an acknowledgment of Russia's military and diplomatic influence in the region, particularly given Russia's support for Syrian government forces during the country's civil war.
