In a dramatic turn of events, former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad has fled to Russia with his family after rebels captured the Syrian capital, Damascus. This marks the end of Assad’s 24-year rule over the country. Russian news agencies RIA Novosti and TASS confirmed the news on Sunday, citing sources from the Kremlin.
Assad’s escape to Moscow comes after a shocking offensive by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), a rebel group with roots in Al-Qaeda. The group, which operates from the opposition-controlled province of Idlib in northern Syria, launched a surprise attack last week, swiftly overwhelming Syrian government forces.
Rebels Advance Rapidly
The rebels, led by a former Al-Qaeda commander, began their advance by taking control of key cities such as Aleppo, Hama, Homs, and Al-Qusayr, near the Lebanese border. With government forces retreating, the militants quickly closed in on Damascus, sealing Assad’s fate.
The fall of Damascus was the final blow to Assad’s regime. Reports suggest that the Syrian Army was unprepared for the speed and coordination of the rebel offensive. Within days, the capital fell, forcing Assad to seek asylum in Russia.
Assad Arrives in Moscow
According to Russian news agency TASS, Assad and his family arrived in Moscow safely. “Assad, along with members of his family, has arrived in Moscow. Russia granted them asylum on humanitarian grounds,” a Kremlin source stated.
This is a significant moment for Syria and the region. Assad, once one of the most powerful figures in the Middle East, has now been reduced to an exile. His departure marks a turning point in the Syrian conflict, which has raged on for more than a decade.
What Happens Next?
The Kremlin has called for renewed negotiations under the United Nations to resolve Syria’s ongoing crisis. In an unexpected move, leaders of the Syrian armed opposition have reportedly assured Moscow that Russian military bases and diplomatic missions in Syria will remain safe. This suggests that the rebels are looking to stabilize their control and seek international legitimacy.
Meanwhile, the world watches closely as the power dynamics in Syria shift dramatically. Assad’s flight to Moscow has left many wondering what will become of Syria without its longtime ruler.
This chapter of the Syrian war highlights the unpredictable nature of the conflict and sets the stage for what could be a new and uncertain era for the country.
