Russian President Vladimir Putin pays surprise visit to Syria

Russian President Vladimir Putin paid a surprise visit to Damascus where he met his Syrian counterpart, Bashar al-Assad, amid escalating tensions in the Middle East. Both officials met at the Russian troops’ headquarters in the Syrian capital, according to the Syrian presidency and state-run SANA news agency. The pair watched a military demonstration by the Russian troops deployed in the country, the presidency said on Tuesday, reported Efe news. Putin sent Orthodox Christmas wishes to the Russian troops stationed in Syria, according to the source. Russian troops have been deployed in Syria since September 2015, fighting in favour of al-Assad. Al-Assad, for his part, said he appreciated the role of the Russian troops in the Arab country and “the Syrian people for the sacrifices they have done,” alongside the army. During the meeting, they discussed recent developments in the region and plans to eradicate terrorism in Idlib, according to the source. The Syrian troops, with Russian support, have launched an offensive in the northwestern province of Idlib, the last opposition stronghold. (IANS)

Also Read: ‘US President Donald Trump, Vladimir Putin speak on counterterrorism, ties’

Also Watch: United Workmen Union at Guwahati Refinery stage protest against BJP-Govt over CAA 2019