Assad reportedly transfers $135 billion to Russia before fleeing Syria

Bashar al-Assad, the former Syrian president, has reportedly transferred $135 billion to Russia before fleeing Syria. A former intelligence officer claimed that Assad "smuggled out" the funds, but did not explain how this was done. Assad was transported to Moscow under tight security, according to Russia's deputy foreign minister. The Kremlin confirmed that he and his family have been granted asylum in Russia. Assad's departure follows a swift offensive by Islamist-led rebels that ended his family's 50-year rule in Syria. The country is now led by a transitional administration supported by these rebel groups.