Russian Defense Minister Meets Assad, Inspects Khmeimim Airbase in Syria

Shoigu and Assad discussed military cooperation and fight against terrorism, the statement by Russian Defense Ministry’s spokesman Major-General Igor Konashenkov said, adding that the visit came upon the request of Russian President Vladimir Putin.

“Topical issues concerning military cooperation between the two countries’ defense ministries, as well as certain aspects of cooperation in the fight against terror groups that are active on Syrian territory, were discussed at the meeting,” Konashenkov said.

The minister inspected Russian Khmeimim air base in Latakia Province and also inspected the S-400 anti-aircraft missile system deployed there.

The visit was not previously announced, Russia Today reported.

Shoigu ordered the commander of the Russian reconciliation center to further encourage local administrations and fighters to cease fire and join the peace process.

“The defense minister ordered the commanders of the air base to boost comprehensive support to the locals, especially in the areas blocked by terrorists,” Konashenkov added.

Speaking at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum on Friday, Putin said that maintaining Syria’s integrity must be the top priority and warned that the disintegration of the Middle Eastern country would be a “destabilizing factor not only for the region, but for the whole world.”

The Russian military has been conducting an anti-terror operation in Syria at the request of Damascus since September 30, 2015. The Russian air force has been carrying out airstrikes against Daesh (ISIL), Al-Nusra Front and other groups designated as terrorist organizations by the United Nations.

On March 14, 2016, Putin ordered that the main part of Russia’s forces in Syria be withdrawn, saying that the operation had achieved its goals.