Assad regime collapses as insurgents capture Damascus and president flees to Moscow

The Assad regime in Syria collapsed rapidly after insurgents advanced from a rebel-held area, capturing cities and entering Damascus with little resistance. President Bashar al-Assad fled to Moscow as the Syrian army disintegrated. This marks a significant shift in Syria's civil war, which began in 2011 with anti-government protests. The conflict had previously reached a stalemate, despite Assad regaining control over much of the country with support from Iran and Russia. The recent developments follow years of violence, resulting in over half a million deaths and massive displacement. The situation changed dramatically in late November, leading to the regime's swift downfall.