Former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad has arrived in Moscow alongside his family after Russia extended asylum to them on humanitarian grounds, according to a Kremlin insider cited by Russian news agencies on Sunday, December 8. The decision comes amidst a significant shift in Syria’s political landscape, with reports of an agreement ensuring the security of Russia’s strategic military installations, including its crucial naval base in Tartous.
Earlier, Russia’s Foreign Ministry confirmed Assad’s departure from Syria, stating he had issued directives for a peaceful transition of power. The move follows rebel forces entering Damascus unchallenged, marking the end of nearly 60 years of Assad family dominance in Syria.
“President Bashar al-Assad and his family have arrived safely in Moscow, where they have been granted asylum on humanitarian grounds,” an unnamed Kremlin source was quoted by Interfax.
The source emphasized Russia’s commitment to a political resolution for the Syrian crisis. Despite years of staunch support for Assad during the nation’s brutal civil war, Moscow has advocated for renewed negotiations under the United Nations’ framework.
Rebel Agreements and Base Security
As part of the developing situation, Syrian opposition leaders have reportedly guaranteed the safety of Russian military assets and diplomatic outposts within Syria. These guarantees are crucial for Russia, which has invested heavily in its military presence in the region.
Since intervening in 2015 to support Assad, Russia has solidified its influence in the Middle East through its Hmeimim airbase in Latakia province and its naval facility in Tartous. These installations have been pivotal for Russia’s regional power projection. However, with Assad’s departure, their future hangs in the balance.
Securing these bases remains a top priority for Moscow, especially Tartous, Russia’s only naval foothold in the Mediterranean. The port also serves as a vital logistics hub for transporting military contractors to and from Africa. Western analysts have warned that losing Tartous would severely weaken Russia’s strategic leverage across the Middle East, the Mediterranean, and Africa.
On Sunday, the Russian Foreign Ministry acknowledged heightened security measures at the bases but downplayed any immediate threats. “There is currently no serious risk to their safety,” the ministry assured in a statement announcing Assad’s resignation and departure from Syria.
Assad Steps Down
The ministry further elaborated that Assad’s decision to step down followed discussions with various factions involved in the Syrian conflict. “Bashar al-Assad chose to relinquish his position and has left the country, issuing instructions to facilitate a peaceful transfer of power,” the statement read. Notably, Russia denied participating in these negotiations.
Speculations Around Assad’s Timeline
Unverified reports suggest that Assad was in Moscow during the critical moment when rebel forces advanced on Aleppo last month. The reports indicate he may have returned briefly to Syria before his ultimate relocation to Russia.
Meanwhile, symbolic gestures marked Assad’s departure from power. Reuters reported the Syrian flag being removed from its embassy in Moscow on Sunday. However, embassy staff assured that operations would resume as usual on Monday, according to TASS.
This development signals a turning point not only for Syria but also for Russia, as it maneuvers to preserve its influence in a rapidly evolving geopolitical landscape.