Russian President Vladimir Putin (R) and Syrian President Bashar al-Assad visit the Hmeymim air base in Latakia Province, Syria December 11, 2017. Picture taken December 11, 2017. To match Special Report RUSSIA-FLIGHTS/ Sputnik/Mikhail Klimentyev/ via REUTERS/File Photo
Bashar al-Assad Granted Asylum in Russia
Asylum Granted Amid Power Transfer
Syria’s former President Bashar al-Assad and his family have arrived in Moscow after Russia granted them asylum on humanitarian grounds, a Kremlin source reported on Sunday. Assad’s departure follows his decision to resign from office and initiate a peaceful transfer of power after rebel forces entered Damascus unopposed, ending nearly six decades of Assad family rule.
Russia’s Role and Strategic Interests
The Russian Foreign Ministry confirmed Assad’s departure and emphasized its commitment to a political resolution in Syria. While Russia supported Assad throughout Syria’s prolonged civil war, the ministry clarified that it did not participate in negotiations leading to his resignation. Discussions between Syrian opposition leaders and other parties reportedly included guarantees for the safety of Russian military bases and diplomatic facilities in Syria.
Preserving Military Assets
Russia’s two strategic bases in Syria—the Hmeimim airbase in Latakia province and the naval facility at Tartous—remain critical to Moscow’s regional influence. The Tartous facility, in particular, serves as Russia’s sole Mediterranean repair and replenishment hub and supports military operations in the Middle East and Africa.
Although the bases have been placed on high alert, the Russian Foreign Ministry stated there is no immediate threat to their security. Moscow has expressed relief over assurances from opposition leaders to safeguard these installations, amid concerns raised by Russian defense commentators about their vulnerability.
Ongoing Diplomatic Engagements
The Russian Foreign Ministry reiterated the importance of resolving governance issues in Syria through political means and urged all parties to avoid violence. Russia has maintained contact with various Syrian opposition groups and is actively working to ensure the safety of its citizens in Syria.
Assad’s Movements and Symbolic Changes
Unconfirmed reports suggest Assad may have been visiting Moscow when rebels reached Aleppo last month before returning briefly to Syria. On Sunday, the Syrian flag was observed being removed from the embassy in Moscow, although embassy operations are expected to continue as normal.
Russia remains vigilant regarding developments in Syria and continues to monitor the situation closely while maintaining its diplomatic and military presence.
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