Overview
- Vladimir Putin welcomed Ahmed al Sharaa in their first official meeting since the fall of Bashar al Assad.
- A Syrian official told AFP that al Sharaa would request Russia hand over Assad and others accused of war crimes, and no decision was announced.
- Al Sharaa said Syria would respect prior agreements and indicated acceptance of Russia’s military facilities at Tartus and Hmeimim.
- Talks included investments, the status of Russian bases and security issues such as rearming the new Syrian army.
- Assad is reported to be living under protection in Moscow since December, a factor analysts say could complicate any extradition effort.