The Fall of Damascus: Assad Explains His Exile

In his first attributed statement since the fall of Damascus on December 8 and the opposition factions’ takeover of the Syrian capital, former President Bashar al-Assad shed light on the circumstances surrounding his departure from the country.

In a statement released on Monday by the « Syrian Presidency » channel on Telegram, Assad said:

« As terrorism expanded in Damascus, I coordinated with our Russian friends to relocate to Latakia and continue operations from there. »

He added:

« Upon reaching Hmeimim airbase, it became clear that forces had withdrawn from all combat lines, and the last army positions had fallen. With the worsening situation on the ground and increased drone attacks on the Russian military base itself, Moscow requested the immediate evacuation to Russia on the evening of Sunday, December 8. »

Assad concluded:

« With the state falling into the hands of terrorism and the inability to take action, the position itself becomes meaningless. There’s no value in remaining in office under such conditions. I’ve never sought positions for personal ambitions but have seen myself as leading a national project supported by a people who believed in it. »