Conflicting reports surround Russia's role in Assad’s whereabouts

Amid the fall of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad’s regime, two contradictory narratives have emerged regarding his status and Russia’s role in the rapidly evolving situation.

One account said that the Kremlin announced that President Vladimir Putin personally decided to grant asylum to Assad, following Syria's political upheaval. According to this account, Assad fled to Russia after the opposition's quick and surprising takeover of power.

"Of course such decisions cannot be taken without the head of state, and it's his decision," Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov told journalists on Monday.

He also stated, however, that there was no meeting with Assad on Putin's agenda and “As for President Assad’s whereabouts, I’ve got nothing to tell you.”

Peskov further emphasized that the developments in Syria have caught the world—and Russia—off guard. "What happened has surprised the whole world and, in this case, we are no exception," he said.

Additionally, the Kremlin indicated that discussions about the status of Russia’s two military bases in Syria will take place with the country’s new rulers. Peskov explained, “It is too early to say. This is a subject for discussion with whoever is going to be in power in Syria.”

The conflicting statements raise questions about Assad’s current location and the extent of Russia’s involvement in shaping Syria’s next phase. While some reports suggest Russia is offering refuge to the former Syrian president, the lack of confirmation from officials casts doubt on the veracity of these claims.

As Syria enters a period of political and social uncertainty, the Kremlin’s ambiguous stance has fueled speculation about its role in the country’s future and the impact of Assad’s potential presence in Russia on international relations.

Read more: Assad leaves as Syrian PM prepares to hand over power to armed groups