Assad-Putin meeting in Moscow signals push to end Syria crisis
— Syria’s Bashar Assad’s surprise meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin could signal that Russia ultimately seeks a political settlement after weeks of heavy airstrikes in Syria. But the terms of such an arrangement are uncertain, and questions remain about whether Moscow will seek the departure of its longtime ally or try for a power-sharing agreement. to shed light on their ultimate strategy.
In a statement, Putin said that along with fighting militants, Moscow believes that “a long-term settlement can only be achieved as part of a political process with the participation of all political forces, ethnic and religious groups.”
In separate comments, Assad said the Russian military operation in Syria had helped to halt the spread of terrorism and that a political solution could only come after that threat was addressed.
“Terrorism which we see spreading today could have been more widespread and more harmful if it weren’t for your decisions and steps,” Assad said. The threat of terrorism, he said, “obstructs” any political solution to the crisis.
Television footage showed Putin and Russia’s foreign and defense ministers meeting with Assad, with the two leaders exchanging handshakes and smiles.
Putin’s spokesman, Dmitry Peskov, declined to comment on the talks. Asked if Assad’s departure from power was under consideration, he said it was too early to discuss political solutions while the fight against terrorism continued.