Ousted Syrian president Bashar al-Assad has issued his first public statement since his regime was overthrown by rebels in a rapid military advance.
In the statement, published on 16 December via the Syrian presidency’s Telegram channel from Moscow, Assad described how he was evacuated to Russia on 8 December after his base in Syria was attacked by drones. He claimed he had no intention of leaving Syria and had been carrying out his duties in Damascus until rebel forces reached the city. At that point, he coordinated with Russian allies to be moved to Russia’s Hmeimim airbase in Latakia, where he initially planned to continue resisting the opposition.
Assad dismissed rumors that he sought to flee or resign, stating he never considered stepping down or seeking refuge. He also stated that after the drone attack on the Russian base, the decision was made to move him to Moscow.
Reports revealed that Assad’s last days in power were marked by unsuccessful attempts to gain international support.
As rebel forces advanced, Assad reportedly sought refuge in the UAE but was declined due to sanctions. Russia, which was not willing to launch a military rescue, used diplomatic channels to facilitate Assad’s departure.
Assad framed himself as a loyal defender of Syria’s sovereignty, claiming he stayed with his people during the darkest years of the war, facing terrorism and bombardment. He emphasized that he never sought personal gain from his position but viewed himself as the custodian of a national project supported by the Syrian people.
The statement also acknowledged the brutal record of Assad’s government, which has been accused of widespread torture and systematic violations of human rights.
The Syrian government, along with allied militias, was responsible for the deaths of tens of thousands of civilians, with thousands more still missing or tortured to death in prisons.
Human rights organizations have condemned the regime for institutionalizing torture, particularly at the notorious Sednaya prison.
In conclusion, Assad pledged to provide a detailed account of the final days of his regime when the time allows.
