Syrian President Sharaa embarks on a groundbreaking visit to Russia, marking a key moment in international diplomacy and Middle Eastern relations. Syrian PresidentAhmed al-Shara’a arrived in Russia on Wednesday.

President Ahmad al-Sharaa affirmed that Syria’s liberation marked a historic turning point, ending more than four decades of isolation.

In December, rebel leader Ahmed al-Shaara proclaimed a new and free Syria. The former jihadist recently sat down with 60 Minutes for his first U.S. television interview since becoming president.

Deadly clashes this week in the Kurdish-led northeast are a warning of just how fast Syria could slide back into war, writes Hassan Hassan.