Putin shocks Trump amid Asia tour: Russia's surprise military move with Syria's pro-US ruler

Russian Defence Minister Andrei Belousov hailed a “meaningful, fruitful” partnership between Moscow and Damascus, highlighting robust military and political ties during talks with Syria’s new transitional Defence Minister Murhaf Abu Qasra. The meeting comes amid Russia’s continued support for Syria’s rearmament efforts and regional security ambitions, with Moscow presenting new military hardware and committing to remain Syria’s key defence partner.