The ceasefire came into effect at 2000 local time and is intended to stabilise key areas where clashes and security operations had intensified.

The announcement followed negotiations between Damascus and the SDF after Syrian government forces moved into parts of Hasakah province earlier this week.

Those deployments came amid accusations that Daesh detainees had been released from detention facilities, raising fears of renewed militant activity and prompting swift military responses from the Syrian army.

The new accord aims to halt hostilities while allowing security arrangements to be reviewed.

According to Syrian officials, the ceasefire is designed to create space for dialogue and coordination on security, administration and the transfer of certain facilities to state control.

Army units that had advanced toward strategic locations in the Jazira region are expected to suspend offensive operations during the truce, while maintaining defensive positions to prevent instability or militant infiltration.

The agreement reflects a broader attempt by the Syrian government to reassert authority in northeastern regions long controlled or administered by the SDF, which is backed by Kurdish forces and has played a central role in the fight against Daesh.

Relations between the two sides have fluctuated over the years, ranging from tactical coordination to armed confrontations, depending on shifting political and military circumstances.

In recent days, tensions rose sharply after reports emerged that detainees affiliated with Daesh had been released from a prison in Al-Shaddadi.

Syrian military leaders blamed the SDF for the release, arguing it posed a direct threat to national security. The army responded by deploying units to secure prisons and surrounding areas, triggering fears of a wider confrontation.

The ceasefire announcement suggests that both sides are seeking to prevent further escalation, particularly at a time when regional and international attention remains focused on Syria’s fragile stability.

Analysts say the truce could serve as a confidence-building measure if it leads to concrete steps on coordination, detainee management and civilian protection.

For residents of Hasakah and surrounding towns, the ceasefire offers a temporary respite after days of uncertainty. Civilians had expressed concern over troop movements, checkpoints and the possibility of renewed clashes disrupting daily life.

Local sources say humanitarian access and basic services had also been affected by the recent tensions, underscoring the need for calm.

The Syrian defence ministry said the ceasefire would be monitored closely and warned that any violations would be dealt with firmly.

Officials stressed that the truce does not signal a retreat from the government’s objective of restoring full sovereignty over all Syrian territory, but rather reflects a tactical pause aimed at achieving longer-term stability.

The SDF has not issued a detailed public statement on the terms of the ceasefire, but sources familiar with the talks said the agreement includes commitments to avoid provocative actions and to continue discussions through designated mediators.

Previous accords between Damascus and Kurdish forces have often struggled to hold, breaking down over disagreements on governance, military integration and resource control.

Regional observers note that the four-day duration of the ceasefire suggests it is a short-term measure, possibly intended to test intentions and reduce immediate risks rather than resolve deeper political disputes.

Much will depend on whether talks continue beyond the truce and whether confidence can be rebuilt after recent accusations and deployments.

Internationally, the ceasefire may be viewed as a positive signal amid broader concerns about Syria’s security landscape, including the potential resurgence of Daesh cells and the involvement of external actors.

Any reduction in fighting between Syrian forces and the SDF could help refocus efforts on counterterrorism and humanitarian recovery.

As the ceasefire takes effect, attention will turn to whether it holds on the ground and whether it opens the door to more durable arrangements.

For now, the four-day pause offers a narrow but important window to ease tensions in one of Syria’s most sensitive regions and to prevent a new cycle of conflict from taking hold.

The visit is being viewed as a positive step toward rebuilding strategic cooperation and ensuring regional stability following a period of significant change in Syria’s leadership.

According to government and foreign ministry officials, President Sharaa is expected to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin and hold wide-ranging discussions covering investment, defense, and the future of Russian military bases in Syria.

This marks Sharaa’s first official visit to Russia since assuming the presidency following the December overthrow of former Syrian leader Bashar Assad. The trip highlights a new chapter in Syria-Russia relations—one that focuses on partnership, stability, and reconstruction rather than conflict.

A senior government official told AFP that the visit will include Syria’s foreign minister and a delegation of senior military and economic officials.

“The agenda will cover economic cooperation, investment opportunities, and the reorganization of the Syrian military,” the official said. “President Sharaa’s goal is to reaffirm Syria’s friendship with Russia while also setting the stage for balanced and mutually beneficial relations.”

Another foreign ministry official confirmed that discussions will also focus on the continued presence and modernization of Russia’s naval base in Tartus and its air base in Hmeimim.

Both bases, located on Syria’s Mediterranean coast, have historically been vital components of Moscow’s strategic presence in the Middle East.

The official noted that the talks would aim to “ensure continued cooperation while aligning the military partnership with Syria’s current priorities of peace and reconstruction.”

Russia’s Tartus naval base and Hmeimim air base remain symbols of long-standing Russian-Syrian cooperation.

These facilities were crucial during Russia’s intervention in the Syrian conflict in 2015, but under the new administration, their role is expected to evolve toward supporting regional security, maritime trade, and joint counterterrorism efforts.

Observers see Sharaa’s Moscow visit as an important signal of continuity and pragmatism in Syria’s foreign policy.

While the new Syrian government has sought to reshape its international relationships, it remains committed to maintaining stable and constructive ties with major global powers, especially Russia.

This diplomatic approach reflects Syria’s renewed focus on sovereignty, stability, and rebuilding after years of turmoil.

The visit also comes at a time when both nations are exploring opportunities for enhanced economic cooperation. With Syria entering a phase of reconstruction and economic revival, Russia is expected to play a key role in supporting infrastructure projects, energy development, and industrial investments.

“Russia has been a consistent partner, and our goal is to expand that partnership in new areas of growth and innovation,” said an economic official familiar with the discussions.

Although President Sharaa was initially scheduled to attend a Russian-Arab summit this week, the meeting was postponed as several Arab leaders were engaged in overseeing the implementation of the United States’ Gaza ceasefire plan.

Nonetheless, Syrian officials emphasized that bilateral talks between Syria and Russia will proceed as planned, underscoring the strength and importance of the two countries’ relationship.

Syria’s new leadership has shown a clear desire to pursue diplomacy rooted in mutual respect and regional cooperation. Since taking office, President Sharaa has emphasized reconciliation, reconstruction, and international engagement as the pillars of his administration’s policy.

His visit to Moscow aligns with this vision, signaling Syria’s intent to rebuild bridges with allies and contribute positively to peace and development in the region.

Earlier this year, Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad Al-Shaibani visited Moscow to lay the groundwork for deeper cooperation. His visit was followed by a Russian delegation led by Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov in January — the first official Russian visit to Damascus after the leadership transition.

These exchanges have paved the way for this week’s high-level talks, which are expected to produce tangible outcomes in defense, trade, and diplomacy.

As Syria looks toward the future, President Sharaa’s Moscow visit represents more than a diplomatic meeting—it is a message of renewal. It reflects a vision for a stable Syria that maintains strong partnerships while pursuing peace and prosperity.

The world will be watching as Damascus and Moscow take steps to strengthen their historic ties and shape a more secure and cooperative future for the Middle East.