Lavrov: Russia Ready to Continue Cooperation with the New Government in Damascus

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said on Thursday that Moscow is in contact with the new government in Damascus and is interested in continuing bilateral relations with it.

In an interview with Russia Today, Lavrov stated that his country maintains a “non-opportunistic friendship with Syria,” noting that the resumption of communication between the two sides comes within the framework of these relations. He added that President Vladimir Putin recently spoke with his Syrian counterpart, Ahmad Al-Shara.

Lavrov reiterated that President Putin has repeatedly affirmed Russia’s position that it “will not remain in Syria if the Syrian leadership asks it to leave.” However, he noted that “Damascus and several regional countries are interested in the continued Russian presence in the country.”

He explained that Moscow is working on “redefining the mission of its military bases in Syria,” clarifying that the goal is to establish “clear and beneficial objectives for Syrians, their neighbors, and several other countries.”

Regarding the domestic political landscape in Syria, the Russian foreign minister said the country comprises “multiple components, including Kurds, Alawites, and Christians,” stressing that “Syria’s unity must be a concern for all its friendly nations.”

He also warned of “serious separatist risks, particularly from the Kurds,” calling for addressing internal issues through dialogue to ensure the country’s stability and territorial integrity.