Russian state news agencies: Ousted Syrian leader Assad is in Moscow, given asylum

On December 8, 2024, ousted Syrian President Bashar Assad fled to Moscow, marking a dramatic end to his family's 50-year rule as Syrian rebels captured the capital, Damascus. Russian state media reported that Assad and his family were granted asylum in Moscow, a critical ally throughout his presidency. The swift fall of Assad's regime has led to celebrations in Syria, with crowds expressing joy and relief in the streets. This moment signifies a significant turning point in the Syrian civil war, which has devastated the country for nearly 14 years. In response, Russian officials have requested an emergency U.

N. Security Council meeting to discuss the implications of Assad's departure. The rebel groups now in control face the daunting task of uniting a fractured nation and addressing the various factions that emerged during the conflict. The future of Syria remains uncertain, with potential for further instability as external powers reassess their strategies. Analysts suggest that Assad's downfall could shift the balance of power in the Middle East, particularly affecting Iran's influence in Syria.