The fall of al-Assad’s Regime: Will It Affect Russia’s Influence in the Region?

The Kremlin downplayed on Wednesday the impact of the fall of its Syrian ally, Bashar al-Assad, on Russian influence in the Middle East, stating that Moscow’s focus remains on Ukraine and that it maintains contact with Syria’s new rulers.

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When Russia intervened in Syria’s civil war in 2015, it helped tilt the balance of power in al-Assad’s favor. This raised questions about whether his fall could represent a “significant setback” for both Russia, embroiled in its war in Ukraine, and Iran, which is engaged in conflicts with Israel across parts of the Middle East.

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov told reporters: “You are, of course, aware that we are in contact with those currently in control of the situation in Syria.”

When asked about the potential weakening of Russia’s influence in the region following al-Assad’s fall, Peskov added that Moscow maintained relations with all countries in the region and would continue to do so.

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He emphasized that “Moscow’s priority remains the war in Ukraine.”

According to Peskov: “The special military operation (in Ukraine) is an absolute priority for our country. We must ensure the security interests of our people and our Russian nation, and we will do so.”

Russia has long supported Syria, recognizing its independence in 1944 when Damascus sought to free itself from French colonial rule. The West, however, viewed Syria as a Soviet satellite, according to Reuters.

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On Tuesday, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov confirmed for the first time that al-Assad is under Russian protection.

In an interview with NBC, Ryabkov disclosed that Russia transported al-Assad to its territory “in the most secure manner possible” following the collapse of his government in the face of armed opposition factions.

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