Russia's Diplomatic Shift on Syria

Russia is recalibrating its stance on Syria, as Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov openly criticizes the Assad regime's inability to address social issues amidst the ongoing civil war. This marks a notable shift as Moscow, once a staunch supporter and protector along with Iran, distances itself from Bashar al-Assad. Russia facilitated Assad's exile following the capture of Damascus, considering it not a defeat but a strategic repositioning.

The United States, meanwhile, has occupied Syria's resource-rich northeast and imposed sanctions, intensifying pressure on the Syrian government. The rebel leader of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, al-Julani, denies seeing himself as a liberator, highlighting the complex dynamics within the region.

Syria's de facto leader, al-Scharaa, is planning constitutional reforms with a view to future elections, though a census is required beforehand. This comes in response to the prolonged civil war that has heavily burdened the Syrian population. Despite Russia's military involvement against terrorism in Syria, the dissatisfaction with Assad's governance has prompted this diplomatic distancing, as Russia and Syria continue to navigate their intricate strategic interests.