Russia Confirms Role in Bashar al-Assad's Secret Escape to Moscow

 

In a dramatic revelation, Russian officials have confirmed that President Bashar al-Assad of Syria was secretly evacuated to Moscow amid fears he could no longer hold off rebel forces in the ongoing civil war. The disclosure came from Sergei Ryabkov, Russia's deputy foreign minister, who described the operation as ensuring Assad’s safety "in the most secure way possible."

Sources close to the Kremlin revealed that Assad’s escape was orchestrated through a Russian airbase on Syria's coast. Assad reportedly departed from Damascus on a private plane with strict instructions to remain discreet, including turning off his aircraft's transponder.

Ryabkov told NBC News that Assad’s evacuation underscored Russia’s commitment to its allies during extraordinary circumstances, but dismissed speculation about Moscow handing him over to the International Criminal Court (ICC). "Russia is not a party to the convention that established the ICC," he stated firmly.

Human rights groups have long accused Assad of war crimes, including the use of chemical weapons against civilians. While the ICC issued arrest warrants for other world leaders, including Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Russia's stance has consistently opposed Western-backed judicial actions. Ryabkov criticized the perceived double standards, saying Washington’s selective responses undermine international justice.

Assad’s evacuation reflects the deep alliance between him and Russian President Vladimir Putin, who supported Assad's regime throughout Syria’s devastating civil war. For decades, the Assad family has ruled Syria with an iron grip, a dynasty maintained with Moscow’s backing.

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov confirmed that Russia remains in contact with Syrian rebel groups controlling the region, citing the need to ensure the safety of Russian military bases and diplomatic missions in the area. "The security of these facilities is a priority," Peskov said during a press briefing.

As Assad and his family prepare for a new life in Russia following the collapse of his rule, this development marks the end of an era for Syria and raises questions about the country’s future amid ongoing instability.