The Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has emphasised the need for a “comprehensive intra-Syrian dialogue” while highlighting the role of the Patriarchate of Antioch and the importance of excluding criminal elements from the process. The statement adopts a notably moderate tone toward Syria’s new transitional government.
The Russian diplomatic service stated that it is closely monitoring developments in Syria and noted that the new authorities have expressed their intent to establish the functioning of the state apparatus, maintain order and security, suppress criminal activity decisively, and prevent extrajudicial executions.
The ministry referred specifically to Ahmad al-Saraa, leader of the military alliance controlling most of Syria, noting his view that, following the revolutionary change in power, it was essential to quickly move beyond the tools of the uprising and begin building a state based on the rule of law and justice while accounting for the interests of all parts of Syrian society.
The ministry added that the path to sustainable normalisation in Syria lies in launching a comprehensive intra-Syrian dialogue to achieve national consensus and advance an inclusive political settlement in line with UN Security Council Resolution 2254. It emphasised the long history of coexistence between Muslims and Christians in Syria, where Damascus remains home to the Orthodox Patriarch of Antioch and All the East, John X, who leads the Church of Antioch and shares a fraternal relationship with the Russian Orthodox Church.
The ministry expressed hope that Syria would remain a homeland for all its citizens, regardless of their religious affiliation, and stressed that Syria’s future should be determined by its people. Russia also expressed confidence that the decades-long relationship of mutual respect and friendship between the two countries would continue to develop constructively.
Meanwhile, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov stated that Moscow plans to address the Syrian issue and develop shared approaches within the BRICS framework during Russia’s outgoing presidency. Ryabkov also warned that Israeli actions, such as exploiting the situation, were unacceptable and described the annexation of the Golan Heights as categorically inappropriate. He called on Israel to adhere to the 1974 agreement, which recognises Syrian sovereignty over the region.
Ramzan Kadyrov, the head of the Republic of Chechnya and a prominent Russian Muslim politician, stated that the collective West was attempting to provoke escalation between Russia and Syria’s new authorities but asserted that Russia would not allow such a scenario. Kadyrov proposed initiating a process to remove Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) and its representatives from Russia’s list of terrorist organisations to facilitate positive developments.
Also read: Archbishop on Avvakoum: Believers’ displeasure understandable
Source: CNA
