Syrian ambassador to Moscow reportedly seeks asylum in Russia after recall
Then-Syria's Ambassador to the U.N. Bashar Jaafari looks on as Iran's then-President Hassan Rouhani speaks at the 74th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, U.S. on Sept. 25, 2019. (AFP Photo)
Syrian Ambassador to Moscow Bashar Jaafari has requested political asylum in Russia following his recall to Damascus, according to a report Monday by Russia’s state news agency TASS.
“The Syrian ambassador’s request for asylum will be considered; he does not plan to return to Damascus at this time,” the agency quoted an unnamed source as saying.
The same source confirmed Jaafari had previously submitted a formal asylum request to the Russian Federation. No further details were provided.
Russia and Syria have yet to comment on the matter
There has been no official comment from Syrian or Russian authorities regarding the matter.
Jaafari was recently informed of his recall to Damascus and the appointment of a new head of Syria’s diplomatic mission in Russia.
Syrian regime leader Bashar Assad, who led the country for nearly 25 years, fled to Russia on Dec. 8, effectively ending the Baath Party’s rule, which had lasted since 1963.
On Jan. 29, a transitional Syrian administration was announced, dissolving the country’s constitution, security services, armed factions, the Baath Party, and parliament.
