Putin's Strategic Asylum: Assad Sheltered in Russia

Russian President Vladimir Putin has granted asylum to former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad following his ousting. Assad's removal weakens Iran and Russia's influence in the Middle East. The Kremlin emphasizes continued dialogue with regional entities amidst Syria's instability, while Russian military bases' future remains uncertain.

In a significant geopolitical maneuver, Russian President Vladimir Putin has extended asylum to Bashar al-Assad, the former Syrian president, after his displacement amid a swift rebel takeover. This development strikes a considerable blow to both Iran and Russia, who had been pivotal in supporting Assad during Syria's prolonged civil conflict, despite Western insistences for his removal from power.

Assad is reportedly in Moscow with his family, though further details concerning his location remain undisclosed, according to Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov. Assad's exile marks the loss of a strategic foothold for Iran and Russia in the Middle East, with the absence of his regime challenging Moscow's military presence, including bases in Latakia and Tartous.

Peskov highlighted the importance of maintaining dialogue with regional countries to navigate Syria's current challenges, exacerbated by ongoing unrest. The fate of Russia's bases in Syria hinges on negotiations with future power-holders in the region, indicating an evolving landscape as Moscow continues to safeguard its strategic interests.

(With inputs from agencies.)