Former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad has released his first statement since his overthrow, describing his dramatic December 8 evacuation to Russia amid a drone attack on the Hmeimim base, following the collapse of his forces’ resistance to advancing rebels.
Writing from Moscow on December 16, Assad detailed how he remained in Damascus until rebel forces infiltrated the capital, prompting his relocation to Latakia to coordinate with Russian allies. Upon reaching the Hmeimim base, he learned of his military’s complete withdrawal from all battle positions.
The statement, published via the Syrian presidency’s Telegram channel, contradicts reports that Assad had planned his departure, insisting he never considered stepping down or seeking refuge. The former leader’s evacuation to Russia was ultimately necessitated by intensifying drone strikes on the base.
The development marks the end of more than five decades of Assad family rule, toppled by a lightning offensive led by Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham. Reuters investigations indicate Assad maintained extreme secrecy about his evacuation plans, keeping even close associates and family members uninformed.
