Deposed Syrian President, Bashar al-Assad, and his family have arrived in Moscow, where they have reportedly been granted asylum by Russia.
The development follows the dramatic fall of Assad’s regime after a large-scale offensive by Syrian rebel forces.
Opposition fighters had on Sunday advanced into Damascus, securing the capital and forcing government forces to retreat.
It was gathered that Assad resigned during intra-Syrian negotiations before fleeing the country. His arrival in Moscow signals an end to his 13-year rule, which saw Syria engulfed in a prolonged civil war.
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The swift collapse of Assad’s regime is expected to reshape the Middle East’s geopolitical landscape. Analysts suggest that the failure of Assad’s allies- Russia and Iran, to provide adequate support during the final stages of the conflict has weakened their influence in the region.
US President-elect Donald Trump weighed in, attributing Assad’s downfall to the diminished capacities of his primary backers, led by Vladimir Putin.
Trump cited Russia’s focus on the Ukraine war and economic struggles. He also pointed to Iran’s setbacks against Israeli military operations.
A Kremlin source affirm Russia’s commitment to a political settlement and UN-mediated talks despite hosting Assad. The Kremlin appears to be pivoting toward engagement with Syria’s new rebel leadership.
United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres stated the organization’s role in supporting Syrians during the country’s transition, pledging they will work with the Syrian people to determine the country’s future.