Russian President Vladimir Putin has granted asylum to ousted Syrian President Bashar al-Assad as he fled opposition forces, sparking concerns over the future of Russian military bases in Syria. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov confirmed the decision was made by Putin personally, emphasizing the importance of the head of state’s involvement in such matters. While the specific whereabouts of al-Assad are unknown, reports suggest he was evacuated by a Russian plane from the airbase in Latakia.
The fate of Russian military bases in Tartous and Hmeimim, Latakia, remains uncertain as the Kremlin weighs its options. The Tartous facility is crucial for Moscow as its only Mediterranean repair and replenishment hub. With the situation in Ukraine and the Middle East growing increasingly volatile, Peskov highlighted the potential for conflict in the region.
The lightning advance by the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham alliance in Syria has raised concerns about the country’s future leadership. Despite efforts by HTS to distance itself from its al-Qaeda roots, it remains a designated terrorist group by the UN and most countries. Russia has been in talks with regional players, including Turkey and Iran, as part of the Astana peace process to address the instability in Syria.
Israel has also become involved in the conflict, carrying out air attacks on suspected chemical weapons sites and deploying tanks to the border to prevent spillover from the turmoil. Al-Assad’s fall has shifted power dynamics in the region, with Turkey emerging stronger and Israel targeting Iranian-linked sites in Syria.
As the situation in Syria evolves, Russia faces challenges in maintaining its military presence in the region and navigating the complex web of regional dynamics. The decision to grant asylum to al-Assad could have far-reaching implications for Russia’s interests in Syria and beyond.
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