Russia Claims Assad Leaves Syria, Orders Peaceful Power Transfer

Russia’s Foreign Ministry announced on Sunday that Bashar al-Assad had left Syria following discussions with rebel groups, and had issued instructions for a peaceful transfer of power. The ministry posted the statement on Telegram, clarifying that Moscow was not directly involved in the negotiations but had been closely monitoring the situation with significant concern.

Since 2015, Russia has been involved militarily in Syria, partnering with Iran to support Assad’s government against opposition forces, helping it regain control of much of the country. However, with its primary military focus now on the conflict in Ukraine, Russia has reduced its active operations in Syria while maintaining a presence through its military bases and troops stationed there.