Syrian Interim President to Seek Assad's Handover During Moscow Visit: Official
Ahmed Al-Sharaa to ask Russia for transfer of former president and individuals accused of war crimes.
DAMASCUS - Syrian interim president Ahmed Al-Sharaa is set to request that Russia hand over former ruler Bashar Assad during his inaugural visit to Moscow on Wednesday, according to a government official.
The official, who wished to remain anonymous due to restrictions on speaking to the media, stated that Sharaa will petition Russian President Vladimir Putin for the transfer of all individuals responsible for war crimes currently in Russia's custody, with a particular emphasis on Assad.Syria's state news agency SANA confirmed Sharaa's arrival in Russia on Wednesday, specifying that his visit aims to engage in discussions with Putin concerning bilateral relations, as well as regional and international matters of mutual interest.
Additionally, the Kremlin has indicated that Putin will address the future status of Russian military bases in Syria during the meeting with Sharaa.
These bases include the Hmeimim air base in Latakia province and a naval facility at Tartous on the coast.The Russian presence in Syria, particularly through these military installations, has been a significant component of Russia's influence in the region.
The request by Al-Sharaa reflects the ongoing international efforts to hold those accountable for war crimes committed during the Syrian conflict, which has lasted over a decade and has caused extensive civilian casualties and displacement.
The official, who wished to remain anonymous due to restrictions on speaking to the media, stated that Sharaa will petition Russian President Vladimir Putin for the transfer of all individuals responsible for war crimes currently in Russia's custody, with a particular emphasis on Assad.Syria's state news agency SANA confirmed Sharaa's arrival in Russia on Wednesday, specifying that his visit aims to engage in discussions with Putin concerning bilateral relations, as well as regional and international matters of mutual interest.
Additionally, the Kremlin has indicated that Putin will address the future status of Russian military bases in Syria during the meeting with Sharaa.
These bases include the Hmeimim air base in Latakia province and a naval facility at Tartous on the coast.The Russian presence in Syria, particularly through these military installations, has been a significant component of Russia's influence in the region.
The request by Al-Sharaa reflects the ongoing international efforts to hold those accountable for war crimes committed during the Syrian conflict, which has lasted over a decade and has caused extensive civilian casualties and displacement.
