Mon Dec 09 15:09:39 UTC 2024: ## Assad Granted Asylum in Russia After Rebel Victory in Syria
**Moscow, Russia** – Former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad has been granted political asylum in Russia, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov announced Monday. Assad fled Syria on Sunday following a surprise rebel offensive that ended his regime after 11 days of fighting and over 13 years of civil war. The announcement came as celebrations erupted across Syria following the rebels’ capture of Damascus.
The Islamist Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) group, which spearheaded the rebel advance, declared victory in a speech delivered at the Umayyad Mosque in Damascus. HTS leader Abu Mohammed al-Jolani hailed the event as “historic for the region.”
The fall of Damascus marks the end of the Assad family’s 50-year reign, sparking jubilant scenes in the streets. Residents celebrated the departure of Assad, toppling statues of him and his father, Hafez al-Assad. Reports indicate rebels freed prisoners from facilities notorious for human rights abuses under Assad’s rule.
Peskov confirmed Putin’s decision to grant asylum but did not disclose Assad’s location or comment on any planned meetings. While the Kremlin offered refuge to the ousted leader, the focus remains on the sweeping changes in Syria and the uncertain future of the nation following the dramatic rebel victory.
First Piper 