The secret meeting between Russia and HTS has been revealed.

It is claimed that Russia is gradually withdrawing from Syria after the fall of the Assad regime, while The Economist reported that negotiations between Moscow and HTS have already begun.

"RUSSIA WILL HOLD ONTO ITS BASES"

A source from HTS claimed that the new administration would allow Russia to retain some or all of its bases. Additionally, it is likely that the lease agreement for the port of Tartus will continue. This means that Russia will maintain access to its only deep-water naval facility in the Mediterranean.

"THE POSSIBILITY OF ASSAD'S EXTRADITION IS LOW"

HTS also acknowledges that the possibility of Assad's extradition is low (No official request has been made yet). A source speaking to the newspaper emphasized that "There are no red lines," stating that the negotiations are based on interests rather than ideology.

THEY WANT TO ESTABLISH DIPLOMATIC AND ECONOMIC TIES WITH RUSSIA

In exchange for continued access to the port of Tartus and the Hmeymim airbase, Russia promised humanitarian support to Syria, but the new administration says this will not be enough. Because they want to establish diplomatic and economic ties with Russia.

"WE MUST REPAIR RELATIONS"

An HTS source stated, "We are currently at the first step of the negotiations. People want to build a new life. We must repair relations; the country is in ruins, and people are very poor," while The Economist also notes that despite widespread hatred among Syrians, HTS does not seem intent on seeking revenge against Russia.