Bashar Al-Assad Reportedly Exiled To Russia After Losing Damascus

Former Syrian leader Bashar al-Assad has reportedly fled to Russia with his family after his regime crumbled under advancing rebel forces. According to Kremlin sources cited by international outlets, Assad has been granted asylum in Moscow following the capture of Damascus.

The swift collapse of Assad’s government comes after years of support from Russia and Iran. Russian President Vladimir Putin had propped up Assad’s regime, but with resources tied up in Ukraine, Moscow could not provide assistance as rebels made significant gains. Early Sunday, they seized the Syrian capital with little resistance.

The BBC reported that Russian state media confirmed Assad’s arrival in Moscow. However, the outlet was unable to independently verify the claims. Earlier speculation about an escape flight crash was later clarified as involving another aircraft.

Assad’s regime faced mounting challenges in recent weeks. Hezbollah, a key ally in Lebanon, suffered heavy losses in clashes with Israel, leaving Syrian forces vulnerable. The rapid advance of opposition forces culminated in the fall of Damascus, forcing Assad to flee.

Despite the loss of Assad’s government, Russian naval forces remain stationed in Latakia, a coastal city critical to Moscow’s regional strategy. Russia’s involvement in Syria had been part of a broader effort to maintain influence in the Middle East following a failed diplomatic initiative during the Obama administration.

The fall of Damascus represents a major shift in the Syrian conflict, raising questions about the future leadership of the country and the role of external powers. Assad’s exile in Russia underscores the precariousness of his regime and the limits of international support.