New Syrian authorities demand extradition of Bashar al-Assad

The new Syrian administration has demanded that Russia hand over former President Bashar al-Assad, who left the country after losing power. This was reported by Reuters, citing its own sources.

On 28 January, a Russian delegation led by Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov arrived in Damascus. During the visit, he held talks with the new head of Syria, Ahmed al-Sharaa. According to the official version, the parties discussed the continuation of Russian-Syrian cooperation, as well as the prospects for Russia's military presence in the region. However, according to sources, behind closed doors, Damascus put forward much tougher conditions to Moscow.

Damascus demands extradition and compensation

According to Reuters, Ahmed al-Sharaa demanded during the meeting that the Russian side hand over Bashar al-Assad for a trial in his homeland. This position has not yet been officially voiced by the new Syrian authorities, however, the state news agency SANA has already reported on other demands from Damascus. In particular, these include compensation, Moscow's participation in the reconstruction of the country, and the need to take into account the mistakes of the past.

Commenting on the situation, Vladimir Putin stated that the future of Russian military bases in Syria – the Khmeimim air base and the naval base in Tartus – would depend on agreements with the new authorities.