Bashar al-Assad, Syria’s deposed president, and his family have been granted asylum in Russia following a large-scale rebel offensive. The collapse of Assad’s regime marks a turning point in Syria’s crisis and shifts regional power dynamics.
The former President of Syria, Bashar, and his family have arrived in Moscow after being granted asylum by Russia, according to Russian state media outlet TASS. The move follows a dramatic collapse of Assad’s regime amidst a large-scale offensive launched by armed Syrian opposition forces.
The offensive, which began on November 27, culminated in the rebels taking control of several major cities. By Sunday, December 1, Damascus had fallen, prompting government forces to withdraw. Following intense intra-Syrian negotiations, Assad reportedly resigned and fled the country.
Sources within the Kremlin confirmed that Moscow extended asylum to Assad and his family, offering a safe haven amidst growing uncertainties in the region. TASS quoted Kremlin insiders as saying, “Russia has always advocated a political resolution to the Syrian crisis,” emphasizing the need for resumed UN-mediated peace talks.
Despite being a longtime ally of Bashar, Russia’s failure to intervene during the offensive signals a notable shift in its influence in Syria. Analysts argue that both Russia and Iran, Assad’s other key ally, face diminished power in the region, with Iran grappling with internal challenges and Russia preoccupied with its war in Ukraine and economic pressures.
US President-elect Donald Trump weighed in, attributing Assad’s downfall to waning support from his traditional allies. “Russia and Iran, once his protectors, are now weakened by their own battles,” Trump remarked, referencing Russia’s struggles in Ukraine and Iran’s confrontations with Israel.
The armed Syrian opposition has reportedly assured the security of Russian military bases and diplomatic missions within Syria. The Kremlin is now engaging directly with rebel leaders, signaling a shift in its strategy toward managing the ongoing crisis.
United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has pledged the UN’s commitment to working with the Syrian people in shaping the country’s future. “The fall of Assad’s regime is not the end, but the beginning of a new chapter for Syria,” Guterres stated.
Assad’s departure is expected to significantly alter the Middle Eastern geopolitical landscape. His regime’s collapse weakens Iran and Russia’s foothold in Syria, providing an opportunity for other regional players to assert their influence.
Meanwhile, Syria faces the challenge of rebuilding its institutions and fostering unity among its people. International actors are now turning their focus to supporting Syria’s recovery and ensuring stability in a nation that has long been plagued by conflict.
