Assad's fall raises questions about Russia's influence in Syria and Putin's prestige

Bashar Assad fled to Moscow as rebel forces quickly overran his regime, marking a significant shift in Syria's power dynamics. This rapid collapse highlights Russia's inability to maintain its influence in the region, contrasting sharply with its earlier military successes. Russia's military presence in Syria, which once bolstered Assad's control, is now uncertain. The Kremlin is negotiating with new Syrian authorities to secure its military bases, but the future of these assets remains unclear amid the ongoing instability. Assad's downfall is seen as a blow to President Vladimir Putin's prestige, complicating Russia's position in international negotiations, particularly regarding Ukraine. The loss of its ally in the Middle East may weaken Moscow's influence on the global stage.