Assad flees to Russia as Syrian opposition claims victory in Damascus

Syrian rebel leader Abu Mohammed al-Julani announced a "historic" victory after his group, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), captured Damascus, leading to the fall of President Bashar al-Assad. Assad reportedly fled to Russia, where he has been granted asylum. The HTS offensive took just two weeks, resulting in the capture of major cities and the release of hundreds of prisoners. Al-Julani declared a new era for Syria, emphasizing the need for unity and hard work to build a new nation. The U.S. confirmed the end of Assad's regime after 13 years of civil war. U.S. troops remain in Syria, and airstrikes targeted ISIL positions on the same day Assad fled.