Bashar al-Assad's Return to Moscow: A Defiant Declaration Amidst Crisis
In a surprising turn of events, former Syrian president Bashar al-Assad resurfaced in Moscow on Monday, nearly ten days after fleeing Damascus to seek asylum in Russia. In his first public statement since being ousted from power, Assad vehemently denied accusations of abandoning his country and its people, declaring, "A president cannot be a person who abandons the people he belongs to or who betrays him and his Army."
The declaration, released via his press office on Telegram, provides a glimpse into Assad's mindset during the tumultuous period leading up to his departure. The document, dated December 16, is titled "Explanation from President Bashar al-Assad regarding the circumstances that led him to leave Syria."
As he addressed the situation, the beleaguered former leader emphasized his commitment to fighting against what he describes as terrorists threatening the country. However, he conceded that the essence of leadership diminishes when the state is under the control of such forces, stating, "When the state falls into the hands of terrorists, any position loses meaning."
Assad recounted the chaos surrounding his exit, revealing that upon arriving at the Russian military base in Khmeimim, he was informed that Syrian troops had retreated from their positions. This shift in military dynamics, he noted, led to increased vulnerability for the airbase, which was subjected to a significant drone assault. He claimed that this prompted a swift evacuation order from Moscow for his safety.
His declaration expressed a sense of nostalgia and a strong emotional connection to Syria. "My deep sense of belonging to the country and the Syrian people fills me with hope that Syria will once again be a free and independent country," he proclaimed.
Despite reports from Kremlin sources confirming that Assad was granted asylum in Russia on December 8, he has kept a low profile since his arrival, with no public appearances or family images surfacing in Moscow.
The implications of Assad's statements and his continued presence in Russia remain significant as the geopolitical landscape in the region evolves. His defiance in the face of adversity and commitment to his narrative suggests ongoing tensions as Syria grapples with the aftermath of a prolonged civil conflict. As events unfold, the world watches with bated breath to see how Assad's return to the public eye will influence the course of Syria's ongoing struggle for stability.
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