What's happened
Bashar al-Assad has fled Syria to Russia as rebel forces close in on Damascus. Russian intelligence orchestrated his escape, ensuring his safe passage amid the collapse of his regime. This marks a significant shift in the Syrian conflict, with implications for regional stability and Russia's influence.
Why it matters
What the papers say
The Moscow Times reported that Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov coordinated Assad's escape, ensuring his flight was undetected. The Guardian highlighted the secrecy surrounding the operation, noting that even Assad's brother was unaware of the plan. The Independent confirmed that Russian agents facilitated the evacuation, emphasizing the precarious situation for Assad as rebel forces advanced. These sources collectively illustrate the complexities of Assad's departure and the shifting allegiances in the region.
How we got here
Assad's regime has faced increasing pressure from rebel forces, particularly the Hayat Tahir al-Sham group. Russia, which intervened in Syria in 2015 to support Assad, has now facilitated his departure as the situation deteriorates, reflecting a shift in Moscow's priorities.
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Bashar Hafez al-Assad is a Syrian politician who has been the President of Syria since 17 July 2000. In addition, he is commander-in-chief of the Syrian Armed Forces and Regional Secretary of the Arab Socialist Ba'ath Party's branch in Syria.
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Syria, officially the Syrian Arab Republic, is a country in Western Asia, bordering Lebanon to the southwest, the Mediterranean Sea to the west, Turkey to the north, Iraq to the east, Jordan to the south, and Israel to the southwest.
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