In a year-end press conference on December 20, 2024, President Vladimir Putin acknowledged the challenges faced by Russia in Syria while asserting that the ongoing Ukraine conflict has made the nation “much stronger. The remarks were made in Moscow as Putin sought to reassure both domestic and international audiences of Russia’s strategic position despite recent military setbacks.
During the conference, Putin emphasized that Russian forces remain committed to their operations in Syria, framing setbacks as failures of Iranian and pro-Iranian forces rather than shortcomings of Russian strategy. He stated, “We need to contemplate how our interactions will shape with the political groups that currently hold power,” indicating a shift towards engaging with emerging political factions in Syria.
Putin also expressed readiness for potential diplomatic talks with U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, highlighting a willingness to explore avenues for dialogue. He warned that halting military operations would give adversaries an opportunity to strengthen their positions, stating, “If we stop for one week, that will mean giving the enemy the chance to dig in.”
Experts noted that while Putin aims to project confidence, the loss of support for Assad could significantly undermine Russia’s influence in the Middle East, particularly regarding key military installations like the Tartus naval base and Hmeimim air base. Analysts suggest that maintaining these bases is crucial for projecting power across Africa and the Mediterranean.
As Russia navigates these complex geopolitical dynamics, Putin remains focused on asserting the country’s role on the global stage amid mounting challenges both at home and abroad.
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