Family Assad Allegedly Flees to Russia Amid Syria Crisis

syria - As the Syrian regime faces collapse again in the face of jihadist rebels, reports suggest that the family of President Bashar al-Assad has sought refuge in Russia. However, doubts remain over whether Russian President Vladimir Putin is willing to 'save' his ally Assad.

According to sources cited by The Wall Street Journal, the Syrian president Assad's family reportedly fled to Russia several days ago, with his wife and three children making the journey while two of Assad's brothers-in-law sought refuge in the United Arab Emirates.

It remains unclear whether President Assad himself is still in Syria. Reports initially claimed he had traveled to Iran, but this was later retracted. American media indicate that Putin may not be inclined to 'rescue' Assad, likely angered by the threat to the Russian military base in Syria.

The advance of jihadist rebels has seriously weakened Assad's regime, with Aleppo and Hama already under rebel control and the potential for an incursion towards Homs and Damascus. Despite previous support from Putin, recent actions suggest a lack of unequivocal backing for Assad. Tehran has pledged military support if needed, while the Lebanese Hezbollah openly stands with Assad.

Syria expert Charles Lister highlights the extreme fragility of Assad's position, speculating on the reluctance of Russia to intervene, potentially influenced by ongoing conflicts in Ukraine. Allegations of Syrian troops abandoning positions have reportedly dismayed Putin, contributing to doubts over any intervention to save Assad.