Syria's Sharaa turns to Russia amid SDF clashes, Israeli incursions

Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa met with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow to discuss Russia's future military presence and the stabilization of Syria. The visit occurs as Syrian government forces advance into areas controlled by the US-backed SDF, leading to violent clashes despite a recent agreement. Sharaa is reportedly seeking a greater Russian security role, including a military police presence in the Golan Heights as a buffer against Israeli incursions. Concurrently, the US is pressing for a security agreement between Syria and Israel, though the presence of Israeli troops on Mount Hermon remains a significant obstacle.