December 8th 2024.
The news of Bashar al-Assad's rule coming to an end in Syria was met with celebrations by many, but it also sparked a frenzy of rumors about his whereabouts. After a day of speculation and mystery, the truth was finally revealed when Russian state media announced that he had landed in Moscow.
According to a source from the Kremlin, Assad and his family sought asylum in Russia for humanitarian reasons. This came after a meeting with Iran's foreign minister and a vow to fight against terrorist organizations, as the rebels continued to make significant advancements throughout the country.
Despite being a prominent figure for over two decades, Assad had maintained a low profile since the uprising began. As the rebels closed in on the capital city of Damascus, reports emerged that he was nowhere to be found and his Presidential Guard was no longer deployed at his usual residence.
The Syrian presidential office initially denied these rumors, accusing foreign media outlets of spreading false news. However, as the rebels took control of the capital and began searching for Assad, it became clear that he had indeed fled the city.
Amidst the chaos and uncertainty, Russia's foreign ministry released a statement claiming that Assad had voluntarily left his position and the country, instructing for a peaceful transfer of power. They also clarified that Russia was not involved in these negotiations.
Shortly after, it was revealed that Assad had arrived in Moscow under the protection of the Russian government. Sources close to the rebels claimed that he had left Damascus and traveled to Latakia, where Russia has an airbase.
While there is no confirmation of whether Assad was on the flight, tracking data showed a plane departing from Damascus airport and heading towards the coast before suddenly changing direction and disappearing. It was clear that Russia was the most likely destination, given their longstanding alliance and support for the Syrian regime.
Whether Moscow will be Assad's permanent destination remains to be seen, but it certainly marks a sudden and humiliating end to his decades-long rule.
[This article has been trending online recently and has been generated with AI. Your feed is customized.]
[Generative AI is experimental.]