The unexpected visit of Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa — formerly known as the leader of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham*, a group once fighting against Russian forces — to Moscow has raised eyebrows across diplomatic circles. Many observers now question why the Kremlin chose to host a figure who only recently appeared on international terrorist lists and fought against Russian-backed troops in Syria.
LYUBA LULKOFrom Warlord to President: Why Russia Welcomed Syria’s Ahmed al-Sharaa