Russia ‘surprised’ by developments in Syria, declines to confirm Assad’s whereabouts
Kremlin. (AFP Photo)
The Kremlin on Monday declined to confirm reports that ousted Syrian President Bashar al-Assad and his family had fled to Moscow after opposition forces took control of Damascus.
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov expressed surprise at the rapid developments and clarified that any decision regarding asylum for Assad would rest with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Kremlin denies knowledge of Assad’s location
“As for Mr. Assad’s whereabouts, I’ve got nothing to tell you,” Peskov told reporters. He added that if Russia were to grant asylum to Assad, such a decision would be made solely by President Putin. “Of course, such decisions cannot be taken without the head of state, and it’s his decision,” Peskov explained.
Russian news agencies, citing a Kremlin source, reported on Sunday that Assad and his family had arrived in Moscow after fleeing Syria. Assad’s son is reportedly studying in the Russian capital.
No meeting with Assad planned
Peskov confirmed that no meeting with Assad was scheduled on Putin’s agenda. Acknowledging the impact of Assad’s fall, Peskov noted, “What happened has surprised the whole world and, in this case, we are no exception.”
Russia has previously provided refuge to ousted leaders, including former Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovych. However, Peskov did not confirm whether a similar approach would be taken for Assad.
Future of Russian military bases in Syria
The fall of Assad raises uncertainties about the future of Russia’s military presence in Syria, particularly its naval base in Tartus and air base at Hmeimim.
Discussions on the bases’ status will be held with Syria’s new rulers, Peskov stated. “It is too early to say. This is a subject for discussion with whoever is going to be in power in Syria.”
He stressed the importance of securing these facilities, adding, “We are doing everything possible to get in touch with those who can provide security. Our military is also taking precautionary measures.”
A Kremlin source cited by Russian news agencies claimed that the opposition forces who ousted Assad had guaranteed the safety of Russian military bases and diplomatic missions in Syria.
Syrian Embassy in Moscow
On Monday, the Syrian embassy in Moscow raised the opposition flag, symbolizing the shift in power. A spokesperson confirmed that the embassy was operating normally under the new administration.
Dialogue with Türkiye
Peskov highlighted the importance of maintaining dialogue with Türkiye, a key supporter of opposition forces in Syria. “It’s important to maintain dialogue with all countries. We firmly intend to do this and analyze the situation,” he said.
Peskov acknowledged that Syria is entering a challenging period of instability. “Now there will be a very complex period due to instability,” he said, emphasizing the evolving nature of the situation.
