Syrian President Ahmad Al-Sharaa revealed today that Russia and the Hay"at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) reached a secret agreement during the intense battle for Hama in December 2024. Al-Sharaa stated that Russia had no "particular attachment" to President Bashar Al-Assad and chose to cooperate with HTS as it became clear that Assad"s regime was losing its grip on power.
This shift in allegiance marked a significant turning point in the conflict, as Russia withdrew its support from the Syrian Arab Army and took a neutral stance, effectively siding with HTS during critical military engagements. The implications of this agreement have raised questions about the future dynamics of power in Syria.
Historically, Russia has been a key ally of the Assad regime, providing military assistance since the onset of the Syrian Civil War in 2015. However, Al-Sharaa"s statements suggest a growing disillusionment with Assad"s leadership, indicating that the Kremlin may be reconsidering its strategies in the region. This follows a trend of recent developments in Syria"s foreign relations, particularly its deepening ties with Iran.
As the situation unfolds, the ramifications of Russia"s new alignment with HTS could reshape the conflict landscape in Syria, potentially leading to shifts in alliances and power. Observers will be closely monitoring how this development influences both local and international responses in the coming months.
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