In a significant diplomatic move, Russian President Vladimir Putin met with Syrian President Bashar Assad in Moscow on Wednesday to discuss the escalating tensions in the Middle East. The meeting took place in the Kremlin and was captured on video, which was distributed by the Kremlin press service.

Both leaders expressed their concerns about the rising tensions in the region, but no further details were provided regarding the specific issues discussed during the meeting. It is worth noting that Russia has been actively involved in the Syrian conflict since September 2015, partnering with Iran to support Assad's government in regaining control over the country and combatting armed opposition groups.

During the meeting, Putin emphasized his interest in hearing Assad's opinion regarding the overall situation in the region. He acknowledged the tendency towards escalation, which has had a direct impact on Syria. The Kremlin did not provide additional information about the topics discussed during the meeting.

This meeting marks the first encounter between Putin and Assad since March 2023 when they met in the Kremlin to commemorate the 12-year uprising-turned-civil war in Syria. At that time, Putin highlighted the crucial role played by the Russian military in stabilizing the country.

One possible agenda item discussed during the meeting may have been the restoration of diplomatic relations between Syria and Turkey. Russia, a strong supporter of Assad's government, maintains close ties with Turkey and has been advocating for a reestablishment of relations between the two countries.

Turkey and Syria severed ties in 2011 following mass anti-government protests and the subsequent civil war. Turkey has been supporting insurgent groups seeking to overthrow Assad and currently has forces stationed in the opposition-held northwest, causing tensions between the two nations.

In December 2022, the defense ministers of Turkey, Syria, and Russia held talks in Moscow, marking the first ministerial-level meeting between Turkey and Syria in over a decade. Russia has also facilitated meetings between officials from both countries in the past.

While Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Assad have recently signaled their interest in restoring diplomatic ties, certain conditions need to be met. Assad stated that Turkey should withdraw its troops from northern Syria and cease supporting insurgent groups that are considered "terrorists" by Damascus.

It should be noted that earlier reports suggesting a meeting between Erdogan and Assad in Moscow in August were denied by Turkish officials, stating that they did not reflect the truth.

The meeting between Putin and Assad highlights the ongoing diplomatic efforts to address the escalating tensions in the Middle East and explore potential avenues for resolution. Both Russia and Turkey, with their respective influence in the region, play key roles in shaping the future of Syria and its relations with its neighboring countries.