Syria received a new shipment of its local currency printed in Russia on Wednesday and more shipments were expected in the future, a Syrian government official said, in a new sign of improving ties between Moscow and Syria's new rulers.

Russia shipped a diesel cargo to Syria onboard a tanker under U.S. sanctions, the first known such direct supply to the Middle Eastern country in more than a decade, LSEG data showed. The final destination of the cargo is unclear.

Syria's new government carried out helicopter strikes after fighters loyal to an elite Assad unit killed security personnel

Three months after Syria’s 14-year-old civil war ended, and as the holy month of Ramadan begins, euphoria is being replaced by anger at the continuing atrophying of the economy and at the apparent inability of the new government to reverse it.

The bases may stay in exchange for diplomatic backing and money from Russia, which has been deeply involved in Syria's economy and defense for seven decades.

Syria’s new government is reportedly working with Russia as it rebuilds. It’s a surprising turn of events because Russia formerly allied itself with the Assad regime, which the current government toppled.

The discussions between Moscow and Damascus have revolved primarily around the future of Russia’s military presence in Syria, particularly the Hmeimim Air Base and the Tartus naval facility.

President Donald Trump on Monday alerted America's farmers to coming U.S. tariffs on "external product," telling them to get ready to sell their goods domestically.

But even in a relatively permissive environment, Russia’s appetite for global upheaval has limits. New bursts of conflict will not necessarily work in its favor. Given its finite resources and its preoccupation with Ukraine,

Russia views Libya as an anchor for further entrenchment in the Sahel, where Western disengagement and weakened governments create openings. From oil in Libya to gold in Sudan to uranium in Niger, control of North Africa’s resources would feed Russia’s broader power projection goals.