Global Geo-political Series: Putin says Syria almost freed from ISIS/ISIL

According to Russia President Vladimir Putin, the almost entire region of Syria including those which have been historically dominated by Christian population have been liberated. Speaking at a meeting with the heads of Orthodox Christian congregation President Putin reportedly said, “The situation in this country [Syria] is gradually changing. The Syrian armed forces, supported by the Russian military, have liberated from terrorists almost the whole territory of the country, including historic Christian regions…. We will help also the members of other faiths, including Muslims, who, as we are well aware of, has also suffered greatly at the hands of bandits, terrorists, and radicals…We will also help Jews, a number of organizations have already reached us with a call for help in the restoration of Judaic holy sites.”

He stressed the importance of peace and stability in the region to ensure displaced population can return to their homes and added that the return of the Christian population, as well as of the refugees of other faiths, might play the crucial role in the restoration of peaceful life in the war-torn country.

With ISIS/ISIL defeated in Syria and more territories freed, the discussion would soon focus on the future of the Assad regime, which is supported by Russia but opposed by the United States. Last month, Russia’s Chief of General Staff Valery Gerasimov said that the active phase of Russia’s counterterrorism operation in Syria is coming to an end.