Bashar al-Assad flees to Moscow, raising questions about Putin's influence in the Middle East and Ukraine

Bashar al-Assad has fled Syria for Moscow, marking a significant shift in the region's power dynamics. This collapse of his regime is seen as a setback for Russian President Vladimir Putin, who relied on Assad as an ally in the Middle East. The fall of Assad raises questions about Putin's influence and military capabilities. Observers note parallels with past leaders who fled amid conflict, highlighting the fragility of Putin's position as he faces challenges in Ukraine. Putin's support for Assad now appears weakened, but some analysts suggest this may lead him to adopt a tougher stance in negotiations over Ukraine. The situation reflects the complexities of Putin's geopolitical strategy amid ongoing conflicts.