Assad flees to Moscow as regime collapses, posing challenges for Putin

Syrian leader Bashar al-Assad has fled to Moscow after his regime collapsed, marking a significant setback for Russian President Vladimir Putin. This loss raises questions about Putin's influence in the Middle East and the stability of his own rule. The fall of Assad's government has drawn comparisons to past political upheavals, such as the ousting of former Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovych. As rebel forces advanced, videos showed the destruction of Assad's monuments, signaling a shift in power dynamics in Syria. Putin's support for Assad, which once bolstered his standing, now appears ineffective. The situation may complicate negotiations regarding the ongoing war in Ukraine, as Putin's position could become more rigid in response to these developments.