In brief
The sentiment among Syrians has shifted against Russia following years of military intervention that bolstered the Assad regime. Amid devastation and a desire for change, the interim government considers its strategic options, highlighting the complicated nature of international relations in the region.
In post-Assad Syria, fresh hopes arise among many citizens and rebel fighters to see the end of Russian military presence. While some Syrians staunchly view Russia as an enemy, others acknowledge the complexities within the interim leadership’s stance on foreign policy.Historically, Russia has played a dual role in Syria—providing military support while securing access to vital Mediterranean bases. However, after the collapse of Bashar al-Assad's regime, voices of dissent against Russia’s involvement are growing. Ahmed Taha, a rebel leader from Douma, recalls the chaos of warfare and the destruction wrought by Russian support of the Assad regime."The Russians came to this country and helped the tyrants, oppressors, and invaders," states Taha, reflecting a widely held resentment towards Russian actions throughout the civil war. As the conflict raged and entire regions fell to destruction, such as Douma, many locals have turned sour towards those who once promised security.With Russia entering the fray in 2015, when Assad was losing ground, it sought to elevate President Vladimir Putin’s global standing amidst international backlash from actions in Crimea. However, the repercussions of this military intervention were devastating, evidenced by relentless bombings and accusations of war crimes during sieges like the one in Eastern Aleppo.Now, with the regime in tatters, many war-weary Syrians echo sentiments for the Russians to depart, aspiring to fill the ensuing void with a semblance of peace and autonomy. Mouna Ali Mansour, hailing from Hafir al-Tahta, insists that Russia should leave as other foreign forces have done, reiterating a shared longing for sovereignty.Yet, the interim leadership remains in a precarious position—claiming a willingness for strategic partnerships and refusing to entirely sever ties with Moscow. This has led to a tense discussion about the future existence of Russian bases in Syria and the potential need for continued military cooperation. Turki al-Hassan, a retired Syrian army general, highlights the deep-rooted history of military collaboration, asserting that rebuilding an effective Syrian military may inevitably rely on Russian support, which complicates the government's position regarding foreign influence.As negotiations move forward in the wake of regime change, Russian officials, while adopting a more careful approach, emphasize their commitment to humanitarian efforts and reconstruction plans for Syria, further entrenching Moscow within the geopolitical landscape of the region.This evolving situation underscores the ongoing struggle within Syrian society—balancing the long-standing desire for self-determination against the practicalities of international alliances born from years of conflict.
