Breaking: Syrian leader flees as rebels take control of Damascus
Long-time Syrian president escapes to Moscow as Islamist forces capture Damascus without resistance. Russia confirms al-Assadʼs resignation after rebels quick advance through Syrian territory
The 24-year reign of Bashar al-Assad in Syria ended abruptly on Dec 8th as Islamist opposition groups swept through the country with unexpected speed. The take-over of Damascus happened with almost no push-back from government forces — a surprising turn for a city that was once the center of al-Assadʼs iron-fisted control
The long-standing Syrian ruler (whose family controlled the nation since early 70s) disappeared without any public statement‚ leaving his long-time supporters behind. Russian state media became the source that broke news about al-Assadʼs whereabouts: hes now in Moscow under protection of his main military ally
The lighting-fast collapse of al-Assadʼs government shocked many observers — the rebels quick advance through Syrian towns and cities left no time for organizing any real defense. The take-over marks a historic shift in Syrian politics: its the first time since the 70s that the country isnt under control of the al-Assad family (who ruled it with an authoritarian approach for more than five decades)
