The Russian Foreign Ministry has confirmed that Bashar Assad has stepped down as President of Syria and left the country. This announcement follows the fall of Damascus to Islamist forces and subsequent negotiations between Assad and armed opposition groups.
In a statement released on Telegram on Sunday, the ministry clarified that Moscow was not involved in the negotiations but acknowledged Assad’s decision to relinquish power peacefully. “Russian military bases in Syria are on high alert. At present, there is no serious threat to their security,” the statement assured.
The Foreign Ministry emphasized its continued engagement with all Syrian opposition factions to ensure the safety of Russian citizens in the region. Officials urged all parties to prioritize dialogue over violence to address governance issues, underscoring the importance of respecting the views of Syria’s diverse ethnic and religious groups.
Russia reiterated its support for an inclusive political process, aligning with UN Security Council Resolution 2254, which calls for a peaceful resolution of the Syrian conflict through free elections and the drafting of a new constitution.
Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), an Islamist militia coalition, alongside other anti-government forces, seized control of Damascus on Sunday. The offensive, initiated last week from the opposition stronghold in Idlib province, was led by a former Al-Qaeda commander. The capture of Damascus marks a significant shift in Syria’s decade-long conflict.
Syrian Prime Minister Mohammad al-Jalali has expressed a willingness to cooperate with any leadership chosen by the Syrian people. Al-Jalali remains in Damascus and emphasized his commitment to facilitating a peaceful transition.
Assad’s departure represents a turning point in the Syrian conflict, raising questions about the future political structure of the nation. The peaceful transfer of power may open the door to new governance arrangements, though significant challenges remain in achieving long-term stability and unity.
The international community will be closely monitoring these developments, particularly the actions of opposition groups and the implementation of UN-backed initiatives. As efforts shift toward rebuilding and reconciliation, the focus will remain on addressing humanitarian concerns and ensuring civilian safety.
