Former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, in his first statement since being ousted, has revealed that his departure from Syria on December 8 was unplanned and came at Moscow’s request amid an assault on a key military base.
Speaking through his office’s Telegram channel, Assad clarified that he left Damascus as opposition forces, led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), closed in on the capital. He stated that the evacuation to Russia followed drone strikes on the Russian-controlled Khmeimim Airbase in Latakia, where he had retreated to oversee combat operations after the fall of Damascus.
“Moscow requested an immediate evacuation to Russia on the evening of Sunday, December 8,” Assad said. While acknowledging that military positions had collapsed, he emphasized, “At no time during the events that have taken place in Syria had I considered leaving the country.”
Assad also reflected on his ouster, stating, “When the state falls into the hands of terrorism and the ability to make a meaningful contribution is lost, any position becomes void of purpose.”
Bashar al-Assad, who ruled Syria for over two decades after succeeding his father, Hafez al-Assad, saw his regime unravel under the rapid advance of HTS and allied factions, marking the end of a long-standing grip on power once deemed unassailable.
