Syrian leader seeks reset in Russia relations

Al Sharaa, Putin likely to discuss Russia's military bases in Syria

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Syrian President Ahmad Al Sharaa said yesterday he wanted to "redefine" relations with Moscow as Russian President Vladimir Putin hosted him in the capital, their first meeting since Kremlin ally Bashar Al Assad was ousted last year.

In front of the television cameras, Putin greeted Al Sharaa warmly at the Kremlin, but behind closed doors the Syrian leader was expected to push for Moscow to extradite Al Assad, who fled to Moscow after being toppled.

Sticking points