Assad comments on his departure from Syria: “My evacuation was not premeditated”

In a statement published on Monday, December 16, on Telegram, former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad spoke publicly for the first time since the fall of his regime in Damascus. He claimed that his departure was not “planned” and occurred at the request of his Russian ally. “My departure from Syria was not planned and did not happen during the final hours of the battle, contrary to some allegations,” he stated in the communiqué.

Assad explained that on December 8, the day rebels took control of the Syrian capital, Moscow demanded his evacuation to Russia, citing concerns for his safety. “Moscow requested an immediate evacuation on the evening of Sunday, December 8,” he said, adding that “Syria is now in the hands of terrorists.”

Assad describes evacuation ordered by Moscow following damascus’ fall

The former leader recounted staying in Damascus until the day of his departure for Latakia in northwestern Syria. There, at a Russian airbase, he claims to have “supervised combat operations” in close coordination with his allies. When the base was targeted by intense drone strikes, Russia reportedly deemed his evacuation necessary.

Assad concluded his message by justifying his departure: “When the state falls into the hands of terrorism and the ability to make a meaningful contribution is lost, any position becomes meaningless.” This announcement comes as several factions claim credit for their role in the fall of the Syrian regime, which is now largely under the control of rebel forces.