Former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad and his family have arrived in Moscow, where they have reportedly been granted asylum by Russia.
This development, confirmed by Russian state media outlet TASS, follows the dramatic collapse of Assad’s regime after a large-scale offensive by Syrian rebel forces.
The regime’s fall reached its climax on Sunday morning as opposition fighters advanced into Damascus, seizing the capital and forcing government forces to retreat. Assad reportedly “resigned” during intra-Syrian negotiations before fleeing the country. His departure marks the end of a 13-year rule defined by a brutal civil war that devastated Syria and left millions displaced.
Assad’s swift ousting is set to reshape the geopolitical landscape of the Middle East. Analysts attribute his downfall to the inability of his allies, Russia and Iran, to provide sufficient military and logistical support during the critical final stages of the conflict.
United States President-elect Donald Trump commented on Assad’s fall, pointing to waning interest from Russia and Iran, Assad’s primary backers.
“His protector, Russia, led by Vladimir Putin, was no longer interested in protecting him,” Trump said. He linked Russia’s reduced involvement to its preoccupation with the Ukraine war and economic struggles, while also noting Iran’s setbacks against Israeli military strikes.
Despite hosting Assad, Russia seems to be recalibrating its strategy in Syria, showing signs of engaging with the new rebel leadership. A Kremlin source quoted by TASS affirmed Russia’s dedication to a political solution.
“Russia has always supported a political resolution to the Syrian crisis. We are in touch with representatives of the armed Syrian opposition, who have guaranteed the security of Russian military bases and diplomatic missions in Syria,” the source stated.
The United Nations has pledged to play a key role in Syria’s transition. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres underscored the importance of supporting Syrians during this pivotal period.
“We will work with the Syrian people to determine the country’s future,” Guterres said.
Assad’s departure marks a significant chapter in Syria’s tumultuous history, leaving questions about the nation’s governance and the balance of power in the region. As rebel forces consolidate their control, international actors, including Russia and the UN, are poised to influence the next steps in shaping Syria’s future.
