Syria Unable to Reconstruct without Russia's Help
The newly established authorities in Damascus are working to rebuild their nation and re-establish diplomatic connections. Read Full Article at RT.com.
TroibNews 
As the recently established authorities in Damascus aim to revive their nation and restore diplomatic ties, they recognize the critical role of Moscow in this endeavor.
Syria’s interim government faces significant hurdles as it embarks on the process of rebuilding the country following the fall of Bashar Assad on December 8. Under the leadership of Ahmad As-Sharaa, the new administration is focused on achieving national reconciliation while simultaneously addressing persistent instability.
Interim Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan Al-Shaibani stated, “the joy of the people will remain incomplete” until Syria’s territorial integrity is fully restored and displaced individuals and refugees can return home. Since Assad's ouster, the United Nations reports that over 115,000 people have returned to Syria, yet a large number of Syrians continue to reside outside the country.
On the international front, the interim government is taking deliberate steps to forge relationships with various nations. This includes a recent ministerial meeting in Saudi Arabia, which involved representatives from both Western and Middle Eastern countries, as well as Al-Shaibani’s diplomatic tour of several neighboring nations. There have also been discussions between Syrian and Russian officials in both Damascus and Moscow.
Internally, conversations are ongoing about the future political framework of the country. Hadi al-Bahra, the leader of the Syrian opposition in exile, remarked that the revolution is not “yet complete” despite Assad’s departure and must persist until justice, freedom, and democracy are fully realized. He stressed the importance of an inclusive transition process that engages all factions and includes the drafting of a new constitution, followed by a referendum and elections.
These developments illustrate the intricate challenges that Syria’s interim government is confronted with as it attempts to unify diverse factions and restore the nation amid ongoing instability.
Domestic policy aimed at national reconciliation remains a priority for the current leaders, who are determined to maintain state institutions and avert the chaos experienced during similar transitions in Iraq and Libya.
In the past month, the administration has made strides to normalize daily life across the country. Essential public services have been reinstated, security has been bolstered in major cities, and certain restrictions from the previous government have been lifted. The new leadership has shown a readiness to compromise and refrain from radical changes to the political and social framework, including the continuation of the existing secular governance structure during the transition. Nonetheless, societal divisions remain deep-rooted, and the government faces many pressing challenges.
A major internal policy challenge lies in ensuring law and order amidst ongoing localized conflicts involving various ethnic and religious groups as well as remnants of the former regime. Violence has been reported in Homs and other central areas, including assaults on Alawite communities that were mostly supportive of Assad's regime. Authorities are working to prevent these incidents from escalating into larger conflicts, yet tensions remain high.
Managing relationships with religious and ethnic minorities is another critical area that demands careful attention. Groups such as Christians, Druze, and Kurds remain cautiously optimistic about the new leadership but seek clear safety assurances. The appointment of Druze activist Mohsena al-Maitawi as governor of Suwayda province signifies an effort to incorporate minorities into governance. Nonetheless, concerns linger that the Druze and Kurds may not receive adequate political representation in Syria’s future governance structure. Additionally, negotiations between the transitional government and the Syrian Democratic Forces for the peaceful integration of Kurdish military units into the Ministry of Defense have also begun. While such integration could enhance stability, it may also provoke opposition from Turkey.
Another significant internal policy challenge is the revival of the economy and social sectors. The government must urgently restructure state administration and reform its bureaucratic system while addressing corruption and inefficiencies inherited from prior governance. Moreover, there is a critical lack of skilled professionals, especially in middle and senior management roles, due to the exodus of educated individuals who either left the country or remain hesitant to work with the new authorities.
The handling of armed factions is also vital to internal policy. The transitional government aims to establish a unified national army, but the reality is that numerous armed groups operate independently, often influenced by external sponsors. Managing these factions is a delicate endeavor, as the government must navigate competing interests to avert a resurgence of violence.
The effectiveness of these initiatives will depend on the government’s ability to engage in constructive dialogue with various groups and strike a balance among competing political and social interests.
On the topic of international engagement, Syria’s interim government is working to foster discussions with both regional and global powers to secure support for the country’s reconstruction efforts.
An international ministerial meeting held in Riyadh on January 12 focused on rebuilding Syria’s infrastructure, economy, and social sectors. Participants addressed the establishment of conditions for the safe return of Syrian refugees, countering extremist threats, and enhancing regional security. Important discussions also centered on upholding Syria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, particularly concerning Israeli incursions into the buffer zone on Mount Hermon and in Quneitra province. Attendees included representatives from Syria, Turkey, Iraq, Lebanon, Jordan, Egypt, the Gulf States, the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, the EU, the Arab League, the Gulf Cooperation Council, and the United Nations.
A significant topic on the agenda was international sanctions against Syria. Saudi Arabia called for their removal to facilitate the country’s recovery, with Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah stressing that ongoing sanctions impede Syria’s development and reconstruction efforts. Conversely, German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock emphasized the necessity of maintaining sanctions against individuals linked to the former regime while supporting a rational reevaluation of restrictions to aid humanitarian efforts. Germany announced an additional €50 million in support for food supplies, emergency shelters, and medical aid.
Interim Foreign Minister Al-Shaibani traveled to Doha to meet with his Qatari counterpart and the Prime Minister of Qatar, discussing ways to strengthen bilateral relations and secure economic backing for Syrian reconstruction. Prior to this, he visited Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and the United Arab Emirates to garner regional support.
On the world stage, the interim government is working to rekindle ties with Western nations. A notable diplomatic act saw France raise its flag over its embassy in Damascus for the first time in 12 years, signaling the resumption of diplomatic relations. The leader of the Islamist movement Hayat Tahrir-al-Sham, Ahmed al-Sharaa, called for the lifting of sanctions to aid Syria’s reconstruction and facilitate the return of refugees, stressing the importance of creating a state governed by law and institutions. Germany plans to discuss Syria’s transitional process and the protection of minority rights further, while Turkey has urged the formation of an inclusive administration and requested EU assistance in managing the return of refugees.
A key component of the interim government’s foreign policy is its engagement with Russia. A visit from a Russian delegation led by Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov and Kremlin Special Envoy for Syria Aleksandr Lavrentyev to Damascus on January 28 underscored ongoing discussions regarding bilateral collaboration and the future of Russian military bases in Syria. The Syrian leadership has emphasized the need to recognize “past mistakes” and highlighted the importance of reparations and reconstruction to rebuild trust between the two nations. Russia has agreed to provide essential support for Syria’s post-crisis recovery, reaffirming its commitment to the country’s sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity. This meeting was followed by further discussions in Moscow, initiated by the Syrian ambassador.
These diplomatic initiatives demonstrate the new Syrian leadership’s resolve to engage with both regional and global powers, seeking international support for the country’s reconstruction and striving for stability in the aftermath of conflict.
Maintaining a relationship with Moscow is of vital importance to Damascus. Amid complex geopolitical dynamics, Syria’s new government acknowledges the necessity of fostering robust ties with Russia. Despite pressure and coercion from Western entities, Syrian authorities believe that a partnership with Moscow can yield mutual benefits and recognize Russia’s historical role as a steadfast ally.
During recent discussions in Damascus, one of the focal points was the future of the Russian military bases located in Tartus and Hmeimim, a matter that remains to be resolved with both parties agreeing to ongoing consultations. Bogdanov expressed that Moscow is amenable to further dialogue, both within Syria and in Russia, and offered to host the Syrian Foreign Minister for additional discussions.
An official statement from the interim government emphasized that talks included mechanisms for transitional justice and measures to ensure accountability for victims of the civil war. Damascus reiterated that restoring relations necessitates addressing past mistakes, honoring the will of the Syrian people, and catering to their interests.
Western pressure complicates negotiations, with the EU intensifying its efforts to engage with Syria’s new authorities, proposing sanctions relief in exchange for distancing from Russia. Recent visits to Damascus by the foreign ministers of Germany and France reflect this initiative, while EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs Kaja Kallas announced that European ministers have established a roadmap for easing sanctions. Additionally, G7 nations are exploring alternatives to supply Syria with oil and food, aiming to lessen its reliance on Russian exports.
Despite the pressure from the West, Syria’s leadership understands that cooperation with Russia is pivotal for the country's recovery. In return, Moscow can assist Damascus with food security, the reconstruction of its military, and the modernization of capabilities that suffered during the conflict. As Western diplomatic efforts intensify, Syrian authorities must deftly navigate the competing geopolitical pressures to protect national interests and uphold the country's sovereignty.
Olivia Brown contributed to this report for TROIB News
Syria’s interim government faces significant hurdles as it embarks on the process of rebuilding the country following the fall of Bashar Assad on December 8. Under the leadership of Ahmad As-Sharaa, the new administration is focused on achieving national reconciliation while simultaneously addressing persistent instability.
Interim Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan Al-Shaibani stated, “the joy of the people will remain incomplete” until Syria’s territorial integrity is fully restored and displaced individuals and refugees can return home. Since Assad's ouster, the United Nations reports that over 115,000 people have returned to Syria, yet a large number of Syrians continue to reside outside the country.
On the international front, the interim government is taking deliberate steps to forge relationships with various nations. This includes a recent ministerial meeting in Saudi Arabia, which involved representatives from both Western and Middle Eastern countries, as well as Al-Shaibani’s diplomatic tour of several neighboring nations. There have also been discussions between Syrian and Russian officials in both Damascus and Moscow.
Internally, conversations are ongoing about the future political framework of the country. Hadi al-Bahra, the leader of the Syrian opposition in exile, remarked that the revolution is not “yet complete” despite Assad’s departure and must persist until justice, freedom, and democracy are fully realized. He stressed the importance of an inclusive transition process that engages all factions and includes the drafting of a new constitution, followed by a referendum and elections.
These developments illustrate the intricate challenges that Syria’s interim government is confronted with as it attempts to unify diverse factions and restore the nation amid ongoing instability.
Domestic policy aimed at national reconciliation remains a priority for the current leaders, who are determined to maintain state institutions and avert the chaos experienced during similar transitions in Iraq and Libya.
In the past month, the administration has made strides to normalize daily life across the country. Essential public services have been reinstated, security has been bolstered in major cities, and certain restrictions from the previous government have been lifted. The new leadership has shown a readiness to compromise and refrain from radical changes to the political and social framework, including the continuation of the existing secular governance structure during the transition. Nonetheless, societal divisions remain deep-rooted, and the government faces many pressing challenges.
A major internal policy challenge lies in ensuring law and order amidst ongoing localized conflicts involving various ethnic and religious groups as well as remnants of the former regime. Violence has been reported in Homs and other central areas, including assaults on Alawite communities that were mostly supportive of Assad's regime. Authorities are working to prevent these incidents from escalating into larger conflicts, yet tensions remain high.
Managing relationships with religious and ethnic minorities is another critical area that demands careful attention. Groups such as Christians, Druze, and Kurds remain cautiously optimistic about the new leadership but seek clear safety assurances. The appointment of Druze activist Mohsena al-Maitawi as governor of Suwayda province signifies an effort to incorporate minorities into governance. Nonetheless, concerns linger that the Druze and Kurds may not receive adequate political representation in Syria’s future governance structure. Additionally, negotiations between the transitional government and the Syrian Democratic Forces for the peaceful integration of Kurdish military units into the Ministry of Defense have also begun. While such integration could enhance stability, it may also provoke opposition from Turkey.
Another significant internal policy challenge is the revival of the economy and social sectors. The government must urgently restructure state administration and reform its bureaucratic system while addressing corruption and inefficiencies inherited from prior governance. Moreover, there is a critical lack of skilled professionals, especially in middle and senior management roles, due to the exodus of educated individuals who either left the country or remain hesitant to work with the new authorities.
The handling of armed factions is also vital to internal policy. The transitional government aims to establish a unified national army, but the reality is that numerous armed groups operate independently, often influenced by external sponsors. Managing these factions is a delicate endeavor, as the government must navigate competing interests to avert a resurgence of violence.
The effectiveness of these initiatives will depend on the government’s ability to engage in constructive dialogue with various groups and strike a balance among competing political and social interests.
On the topic of international engagement, Syria’s interim government is working to foster discussions with both regional and global powers to secure support for the country’s reconstruction efforts.
An international ministerial meeting held in Riyadh on January 12 focused on rebuilding Syria’s infrastructure, economy, and social sectors. Participants addressed the establishment of conditions for the safe return of Syrian refugees, countering extremist threats, and enhancing regional security. Important discussions also centered on upholding Syria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, particularly concerning Israeli incursions into the buffer zone on Mount Hermon and in Quneitra province. Attendees included representatives from Syria, Turkey, Iraq, Lebanon, Jordan, Egypt, the Gulf States, the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, the EU, the Arab League, the Gulf Cooperation Council, and the United Nations.
A significant topic on the agenda was international sanctions against Syria. Saudi Arabia called for their removal to facilitate the country’s recovery, with Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah stressing that ongoing sanctions impede Syria’s development and reconstruction efforts. Conversely, German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock emphasized the necessity of maintaining sanctions against individuals linked to the former regime while supporting a rational reevaluation of restrictions to aid humanitarian efforts. Germany announced an additional €50 million in support for food supplies, emergency shelters, and medical aid.
Interim Foreign Minister Al-Shaibani traveled to Doha to meet with his Qatari counterpart and the Prime Minister of Qatar, discussing ways to strengthen bilateral relations and secure economic backing for Syrian reconstruction. Prior to this, he visited Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and the United Arab Emirates to garner regional support.
On the world stage, the interim government is working to rekindle ties with Western nations. A notable diplomatic act saw France raise its flag over its embassy in Damascus for the first time in 12 years, signaling the resumption of diplomatic relations. The leader of the Islamist movement Hayat Tahrir-al-Sham, Ahmed al-Sharaa, called for the lifting of sanctions to aid Syria’s reconstruction and facilitate the return of refugees, stressing the importance of creating a state governed by law and institutions. Germany plans to discuss Syria’s transitional process and the protection of minority rights further, while Turkey has urged the formation of an inclusive administration and requested EU assistance in managing the return of refugees.
A key component of the interim government’s foreign policy is its engagement with Russia. A visit from a Russian delegation led by Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov and Kremlin Special Envoy for Syria Aleksandr Lavrentyev to Damascus on January 28 underscored ongoing discussions regarding bilateral collaboration and the future of Russian military bases in Syria. The Syrian leadership has emphasized the need to recognize “past mistakes” and highlighted the importance of reparations and reconstruction to rebuild trust between the two nations. Russia has agreed to provide essential support for Syria’s post-crisis recovery, reaffirming its commitment to the country’s sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity. This meeting was followed by further discussions in Moscow, initiated by the Syrian ambassador.
These diplomatic initiatives demonstrate the new Syrian leadership’s resolve to engage with both regional and global powers, seeking international support for the country’s reconstruction and striving for stability in the aftermath of conflict.
Maintaining a relationship with Moscow is of vital importance to Damascus. Amid complex geopolitical dynamics, Syria’s new government acknowledges the necessity of fostering robust ties with Russia. Despite pressure and coercion from Western entities, Syrian authorities believe that a partnership with Moscow can yield mutual benefits and recognize Russia’s historical role as a steadfast ally.
During recent discussions in Damascus, one of the focal points was the future of the Russian military bases located in Tartus and Hmeimim, a matter that remains to be resolved with both parties agreeing to ongoing consultations. Bogdanov expressed that Moscow is amenable to further dialogue, both within Syria and in Russia, and offered to host the Syrian Foreign Minister for additional discussions.
An official statement from the interim government emphasized that talks included mechanisms for transitional justice and measures to ensure accountability for victims of the civil war. Damascus reiterated that restoring relations necessitates addressing past mistakes, honoring the will of the Syrian people, and catering to their interests.
Western pressure complicates negotiations, with the EU intensifying its efforts to engage with Syria’s new authorities, proposing sanctions relief in exchange for distancing from Russia. Recent visits to Damascus by the foreign ministers of Germany and France reflect this initiative, while EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs Kaja Kallas announced that European ministers have established a roadmap for easing sanctions. Additionally, G7 nations are exploring alternatives to supply Syria with oil and food, aiming to lessen its reliance on Russian exports.
Despite the pressure from the West, Syria’s leadership understands that cooperation with Russia is pivotal for the country's recovery. In return, Moscow can assist Damascus with food security, the reconstruction of its military, and the modernization of capabilities that suffered during the conflict. As Western diplomatic efforts intensify, Syrian authorities must deftly navigate the competing geopolitical pressures to protect national interests and uphold the country's sovereignty.
Olivia Brown contributed to this report for TROIB News
