Syrian President Bashar al-Assad and his family have reportedly taken refuge in Moscow, as per a statement made by a Russian official. This comes in the wake of rebel forces gaining control over Damascus, thereby bringing to an end the Assad family’s authoritarian rule of over 50 years.

The Russian envoy based in Vienna, Mikhail Ulyanov, posted this news on social media on December 8, stating that Assad and his kin found themselves in Moscow after navigating a challenging situation. Multiple Russian media have reported that the Assad family has been offered asylum by Moscow. While the Biden administration has yet to confirm this news, it has stated that there is no reason to disbelieve it.

Earlier, it was reported by the Russian Foreign Ministry that Assad chose to step down after negotiations with various parties involved in the armed conflict. He left his office, issuing directives for a peaceful transfer of power. The ministry clarified that Russia was not a party to these discussions.

For years, Russia has been a staunch ally of Syria, extending significant military and political backing to Assad’s regime, particularly during the Syrian civil war that started in 2011.

After Assad’s fall from power, Syrians across the country celebrated by tearing down statues and storming government buildings. Videos on social media showed large groups of men entering the presidential palace in Damascus, with reports of looting.

Syrian Prime Minister Mohammad Ghazi al-Jalali has stated that the government is prepared to work with any leadership elected by the people. Meanwhile, U.S. President Joe Biden has asserted that the U.S. will engage with all Syrian groups during this transitional period, while also keeping a close watch on the activities of the Islamic State (IS).

In a significant blow to Russia, experts have voiced that the downfall of the Assad regime represents a major geopolitical setback for the Kremlin. This is due to the fact that Russia, along with Iran, has supported the Syrian government throughout the civil war.

The situation in Syria has sparked a response from neighboring countries, with Lebanon and Jordan closing their land border crossings with Syria. The U.S. has stated that it will maintain its presence in eastern Syria and will take necessary measures to prevent a resurgence of IS in the region.

As the situation continues to evolve, it is clear that this marks a critical turning point in Syria’s history. It is hoped that this change will bring about unity, a peaceful political transition, and an end to the fighting.

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