Kremlin Grants Asylum to Bashar al-Assad Amid Syrian Conflict
In a significant development in the ongoing Syrian conflict, the Kremlin has confirmed that Russian President Vladimir Putin has personally decided to grant asylum to former Syrian leader Bashar al-Assad. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated that there are currently no plans for Putin to meet with Assad, who reportedly fled to Moscow following the recent takeover of Damascus by rebel forces. This move comes amid escalating tensions and violence in Syria, where pro-Turkish fighters have engaged in fierce battles against Kurdish forces, resulting in numerous casualties.
Syrian Rebels Seize Control as Assad Flees
The situation in Syria has rapidly evolved, with reports indicating that the militia Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) has taken control of the capital, Damascus. Following a brief civil war, Assad's regime has crumbled, prompting speculation about his whereabouts. While some sources suggest that Assad's escape plane may have crashed, others report that he successfully reached Moscow with his family. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights has documented ongoing violence, including recent airstrikes by Israeli forces targeting military sites associated with Assad's regime, raising concerns about the potential for dangerous weapons falling into the hands of extremist groups.
International Reactions to Assad's Ouster
The international community has reacted to the fall of Assad's regime with a mix of relief and caution. U.S. President Joe Biden hailed the overthrow as a historic opportunity for the Syrian people, emphasizing the need for accountability for Assad's actions. Meanwhile, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and French officials expressed hope that this change could lead to a more peaceful Syria, while also urging protection for vulnerable minority groups in the region. Iran, however, has warned that the shift in power will not deter its resistance against Israel, highlighting the complex geopolitical implications of Assad's ouster.
