Russian delegation arrives in Damascus for the first time since the change of power in Syria

A delegation of Russian representatives, including Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov, arrived on Tuesday, January 28, on an official visit to Syria for the first time since the change of power in the Arab republic.

In addition to Bogdanov, the delegation includes Russian presidential special envoy Alexander Lavrentiev, TASS reported. The plane landed at Damascus airport.

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Earlier, on January 25, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and Qatari Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdel Rahman Al-Thani held talks by phone, expressing support for Syria's unity, territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence. The ministers pointed out that the international community should help stabilize the situation in the Arab republic as soon as possible.

Before that, on December 26, 2024, Lavrov said that Russia is interested in a dialog with the new Syrian authorities. Moscow plans todiscuss not only security issues, but also the regional agenda. The minister said that the Russian embassy in the Arab republic maintains contacts with its new leadership. Russia is ready to support Syria in the consolidation of processes and help organize elections, in which all political groups should participate.

The Russian Foreign Ministry reported on December 8 that Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, after negotiations with the opposition, left the post of head of state and left the country, indicating to conduct the transfer of power peacefully. The new Syrian authorities are forming an interim government. For example, on December 21, they appointed Assad's foreign minister, Hassan al-Shibani, to the post of foreign minister.

The situation in Syria escalated as a result of a major attack by armed formations in Aleppo and Idlib, which began on November 28 and led to the Syrian army's retaliation against the militants.