View from Ankara: A double surprise from Moscow – Putin, Shara, and the new Syrian equation

Vladimir Putin with the Syrian President Ahmed Shara
Photo: Kremlin.ru

In such an intense political climate, with the cards being reshuffled, the meeting between Syrian President Ahmed Shara and the Foreign Minister with Putin in Moscow has a significance far beyond mere protocol photographs, stresses ‘Medya Gunlugu’, a Turkish edition.

Judging by the statements released from the Kremlin and the atmosphere behind closed doors, we see how skillfully and successfully Russia is pursuing its "wait and see" policy in Syria. On the one hand, Moscow isn't putting obstacles in Trump's way; Putin has high expectations of Trump regarding both Ukraine and the future of Russia-US relations. On the other hand, Trump is watching the war in Europe and the transatlantic crisis as if he were casually snacking on sunflower seeds. He's not getting involved much, including in Greenland, and is conserving his energy.

In this context, the meeting between Putin and Shara is like an announcement of the new "status quo" in the region.

The Kremlin transcripts deciphered

When we carefully read the statement from the Kremlin, Putin's emphasis is very clear. His reference to the roots of bilateral relations dating back to 1944, and his statement that "there have never been any dark chapters at the interstate level," underscores the historical and unwavering support given to the Damascus regime.

However, the crucial point is Putin's congratulations on "the restoration of Syria's territorial integrity." Putin describes the integration beyond the Euphrates as the most important step taken towards territorial integrity. Shara, in response, states that Syria has moved beyond the sanctions phase and is now focused on the process of reunifying its territories.

What does this mean?

Moscow views Damascus's consolidation of its dominance on the ground and its control over the entire country as an "economic and political victory."

Israel and the southern front

On the other side of the coin is Israel. Russia maintains its "special" relationship with Israel, regardless of the circumstances. Putin is currently quietly assuming a mediating role in the Iran-Israel tension.

Even more interestingly, Russia appears to have prompted both Shara and Netanyahu to call for Russian military police patrols in southern Syria. This should be noted as a tremendous diplomatic success for Moscow. Imagine; two hostile capitals wanting to entrust their security to Russian soldiers.

This situation contains a very critical message for Ankara. The Damascus administration's credibility with Moscow and its self-confidence on the ground have increased. It is no coincidence that Putin greeted Shara by saying, "We are very pleased to see you again."

I hope someone in Ankara sees that this meeting in Moscow was not just a courtesy visit, but a reshuffling of the cards in Syria in favor of Damascus, with the full support of Russia. Hopefully, someone in Ankara is aware of this development and the "Türkiye report" that Damascus gave to Moscow.

As Shara said, "Weather conditions and public resistance" can sometimes change all plans.

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