Syria's new leaders believe it is beneficial to maintain friendly relations with the Kremlin, hoping to secure its support in UN votes, as well as energy, grain, and perhaps even weapons.

China recently hosted the annual Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit, followed by a military parade to mark the defeat of Japan in World War II – all accompanied by bilateral meetings with leaders of several allied countries.

Another round of consultations is expected to restore relations between Russia and the U.S. to normal, a development that could have implications for foreign affairs in countries where Moscow and Washington continue to influence political and security stability, notably Syria.

Russia believes the time has come to open a new chapter with the emerging Syrian state, as Moscow looks to safeguard its regional interests and Damascus seeks to mend ties with what was once seen as a sworn enemy of the Syrian people.

Since returning to the White House last January, Trump has worked to reconnect with Putin and negotiate directly with him to end his invasion of Ukraine.