Russian President Vladimir Putin has taken the decisive step of granting asylum to Syrian leader Bashar Assad and his family, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov confirmed on Monday. Peskov noted that this significant decision could only come from Putin himself, but offered no further insights into Assad’s location or the broader implications of the move.
The asylum offer followed reports that Assad fled to Moscow as opposition forces captured the Syrian capital. Russian state media cited humanitarian considerations as the justification, despite Assad’s record of brutal governance. His regime has been accused of extensive human rights abuses, including the use of chemical weapons during Syria’s civil war, which has devastated the nation since 2011.
Russia’s ambassador to international organizations in Vienna, Mikhail Ulyanov, affirmed the development via social media, calling it a testament to Russia’s loyalty to its allies. In his post, Ulyanov emphasized Russia’s commitment to supporting Assad, portraying the asylum as a gesture of solidarity during a critical moment in Syria’s turbulent history.
European leaders reacted positively to the collapse of Assad’s government, widely seen as responsible for horrific atrocities throughout its rule. These include the destruction of civilian infrastructure, mass detentions, and systematic torture in detention centers. While Assad’s relocation to Russia adds complexity to the situation, his departure signals a turning point for Syria’s future and the region’s geopolitical dynamics.