Vitaly Naumkin, an academician of the Russian Academy of Sciences and the scientific director of the Institute of Oriental Studies, expressed confidence that external players—Russia, Iran, Turkey, and Israel—will not allow Syria to disintegrate as a state. He shared his views during an interview with TASS.
"I believe that Russia and our partners will not let this happen," Naumkin stated. He identified the Kurdish issue as a pivotal factor, noting that while Kurdish groups may aspire to secede, such aspirations are unlikely to gain traction. "No one, especially the victors in Syria, will allow this. Turkey will not permit it, nor will Iran," he explained.
Addressing Israel's stance, Naumkin remarked that the country has no interest in acquiring additional Syrian territory, given that it already controls the Golan Heights. "They might establish a buffer zone, but they won't advance further into Homs or Hama," he speculated, concluding, "I don't believe Syria will break apart."
Commenting on Russia's relations with the new Syrian authorities, Naumkin noted that interactions are already underway. Regarding the potential removal of "Hayat Tahrir al-Sham" (HTS), a group banned in Russia, from the terrorist list, he said this decision lies with Russia's leadership. "We already have contacts and, de facto, have recognized them," he added.
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Photo: Bernard Gagnon/GFDL 1.2
Based on TASS materials