Bashar al-Assad, Syria’s ousted leader, has reportedly fled to Russia with his family after rebels captured Damascus. Kremlin sources told international media that Assad has been granted asylum in Moscow, marking the end of his embattled regime.
For over ten years, Russian President Vladimir Putin supported Assad, preserving Moscow’s influence in the region. However, with Russian forces tied up in Ukraine, the Kremlin was unable to provide significant support as Syrian rebels advanced. Assad’s regime collapsed after his allies, including Hezbollah, suffered significant losses in recent conflicts with Israel.
Bashar-al Assad and his family are safe and alive in Russia, they have been granted asylum.
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The BBC reported Assad’s arrival in Moscow, citing Russian state media. However, it noted that independent verification of these claims was unavailable. Confusion arose earlier over reports of a flight crash, which were later clarified as involving a different aircraft.
Despite Assad’s downfall, Russia has maintained a naval presence in Latakia, a key Mediterranean port. This enduring military foothold highlights Moscow’s commitment to the region, even as its longtime ally is forced into exile.
The swift capture of Damascus by rebel forces signals a dramatic shift in Syria’s power structure. The collapse raises questions about the future of the country’s governance and the influence of external powers like Russia and Iran, which had propped up Assad’s regime for years.
Assad’s escape to Russia underscores both the fragility of his government and the challenges facing Moscow’s Middle Eastern strategy. As the Syrian conflict enters a new phase, the region braces for the political and military implications of Assad’s exile.
