MOSCOW – Former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, ousted by a swift rebel offensive, has been transported to Russia under highly secure arrangements, Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov revealed in an interview with NBC News on Dec 10.
The Kremlin announced on Dec 9 that President Vladimir Putin granted asylum to Assad, whose fall marks a significant setback for Russia and Iran, both of which supported his regime during Syria’s 13-year civil war despite Western demands for his removal.
“He is secured, and it shows that Russia acts as required in such an extraordinary situation,” Ryabkov stated, according to NBC’s transcript.
When asked if Russia would hand Assad over for trial, Ryabkov emphasized that Moscow is not a signatory to the treaty establishing the International Criminal Court (ICC).
Russia’s support for Syria dates back to the Cold War era, with Moscow recognizing Damascus’ independence in 1944 as the country sought to end French colonial rule. The West long regarded Syria as a Soviet ally during that period.
Meanwhile, Syria’s newly announced interim leader declared on Dec 10 that he would assume the role of caretaker prime minister.
Ryabkov also hinted at Russia’s willingness to consider another prisoner exchange with the United States, following the August swap involving Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich and former US Marine Paul Whelan. Such a move, he said, would represent “a healthy step forward, especially at the beginning of the next administration.”