Bashar al-Assad flees Syria seeking asylum in Russia after 24 years in power

Syria's President Bashar al-Assad has fled the country and sought asylum in Russia, according to Russian state media. This marks the end of his nearly 24-year rule, which was defined by a brutal civil war and foreign intervention. Assad's departure follows a recent offensive by Islamist-led rebels, who have taken control of significant areas in Syria. His regime had previously regained most of the country but faced ongoing challenges from opposition groups and Kurdish forces. Assad initially came to power in 2000, succeeding his father, Hafez al-Assad. Despite early hopes for reform, his presidency became synonymous with violence and repression, particularly during the civil war that began in 2011.