TLDR:
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Assad confirms leaving Syria on Dec 8
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Damascus fell amid escalating violence
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Russian base evacuation triggered departure
MOSCOW (The Thursday Times) — Former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad has confirmed his departure from Syria on December 8, leaving the war-torn nation after the collapse of Damascus. In a statement attributed to his press service, Assad detailed his movements, the deteriorating situation, and his subsequent evacuation to Russia amidst heightened violence and political turmoil.
Assad’s timeline and departure from Syria
According to the statement, Assad remained in Damascus until the early hours of December 8, coordinating military efforts as terrorist forces infiltrated the city. He relocated to Latakia under Russian coordination to oversee combat operations. By evening, as the situation further deteriorated, Assad left Syria for Russia from the Hmeimim military base, which had come under intensified attack.
Assad claimed that his departure was neither planned nor voluntary, emphasising that his relocation was driven by the collapse of state institutions and the complete loss of control. Moscow facilitated his evacuation following a request by the base command to ensure his safety.
Damascus’s fall and Assad’s reflections
Assad described the fall of Damascus as the moment when Syria’s state apparatus was overrun by terrorist forces. He stated that his position as president became redundant as the nation’s governance collapsed. While maintaining that stepping down was never considered, Assad expressed his belief that holding a position without meaningful impact rendered it purposeless.
The former leader insisted that his actions were motivated by a desire to continue the fight, not to abandon his country. However, critics have questioned the timing of his departure and its implications for the fractured state of Syria.
Russian asylum and Assad’s future
Assad and his family were granted asylum in Russia on humanitarian grounds. This development marked a significant geopolitical shift, as Russia has been one of Assad’s staunchest allies throughout the Syrian conflict.
Analysts view Assad’s relocation as the end of an era, yet it raises questions about Russia’s influence in the Middle East. While Assad has hinted at providing a detailed account of Syria’s recent events, his political future and role in any potential resolution to the conflict remain uncertain.
Hopes for Syria’s independence
In his statement, Assad expressed hope that Syria would regain its sovereignty and emerge free from external influence. While his comments were limited, they reflect the broader challenges facing the nation as it grapples with rebuilding after years of devastating conflict.
