MOSCOW — Syrian President Bashar al-Assad made a snap, four-hour visit Nov. 20 to Sochi. On Nov. 22, this southern resort city — which is Russian President Vladimir Putin’s preferred residence during the cold months — will be hosting the Russia-Iran-Turkey summit. All of the developments are in large part guided by Moscow's efforts to settle the six-year Syria crisis.

Assad's meeting was carried out in utmost secrecy and not announced until the early morning in Moscow, when Assad was back in Damascus.

Assad's trip this week marks a new milestone for the Syrian war on at least two fronts. First, it’s a symbolic gesture to officially set off a transition from military operations to political processes. Second, it’s a sign that Russia’s own military campaign is coming to an end and Moscow will have to turn to other means to ensure its presence and exert influence in Syria. It was important for Putin to articulate these two things to Assad clearly.

“I believe that terrorism is a global problem and the fight against it is, of course, far from over. As for our joint efforts against the terrorists in Syria, this military operation is nearing completion indeed," Putin told Assad. "I believe that the main task now is to launch the political process. I am glad that you are ready to work with anyone who wants peace and conflict resolution.”