Bashar al-Assad flees Syria for Russia as militants seize his mansion
Bashar al-Assad has fled Syria for Russia, leaving his luxurious mansion in Damascus vulnerable to militants. The compound, once a symbol of his power, was ransacked by members of Jaish al-Islam after their offensive toppled his government. Assad and his family have been granted asylum in Moscow, where they are expected to maintain a wealthy lifestyle. They own at least 20 high-end apartments in the City of Capitals, a prestigious area in Moscow. The takeover of Damascus by Jaish al-Islam raises concerns for Syria's future, especially for the Christian minority that had been protected under Assad's rule. The militant group now holds significant power in the war-torn nation.