Photo: BBC.
The Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has officially confirmed that Syrian dictator Bashar al-Assad has resigned from his post as president and left the country. According to representatives of the Russian Foreign Ministry, this was the result of negotiations between Assad and various parties to the armed conflict, which have been actively unfolding behind the scenes recently, Time Ukraine Israel portal reported, citing Israelinfo.
Russia did not participate in the talks, but calls for peace
The statement of the Russian diplomatic ministry states that Russia did not participate in the negotiations that led to this situation, but calls on all parties to refrain from violence and resolve conflicts exclusively by political means. The Russian Foreign Ministry emphasises the importance of continuing the peace process, stressing the need to organise an inclusive political dialogue within the framework of UN Security Council Resolution 2254.
Transfer of power and security of Russian military bases
Russia’s Foreign Ministry reports that before his escape, Bashar al-Assad left clear instructions for a peaceful transfer of power. Russia’s statement also contains information about the increased readiness of its military bases in Syria, which, as it emphasises, remain safe. Russia continues to maintain the stability of its positions in Syria.
UN Security Council Resolution 2254 and changes in the situation in Syria
The UN Security Council Resolution 2254, adopted in 2015, called for a ceasefire and the start of negotiations between the Assad government and the Syrian opposition. It also demanded an end to terrorist acts, in particular by the Al-Nusra Front and other groups linked to al-Qaeda. However, since the adoption of this document, the situation in Syria has changed so much that many experts consider this resolution to be no longer relevant. Russia insists on using this resolution as a basis for a future political settlement in Syria.
Rumours about Assad’s death and his family’s stay in Moscow
The Russian Foreign Ministry has not commented on rumours about the possible death of Bashar al-Assad in the crash of an Il-76 aircraft near Homs. Earlier, it was reported that the Syrian leader’s family was in Moscow, but information about his further actions and fate remains controversial.
Bashar al-Assad’s resignation from the presidency and his flight from Syria is an important milestone in the long-running conflict, which remains one of the world’s greatest humanitarian challenges.
