Bashar Assad and family flee to Russia as new power dynamics emerge in Syria

Bashar Assad, the former president of Syria, has fled to Russia with his wife, Asma, and their three children after being overthrown. The Kremlin granted them asylum "out of humanitarian considerations" amid celebrations in Syria marking the end of his family's 50-year rule. Assad, who ruled Syria for 24 years, faced protests that escalated into a civil war starting in 2011. His departure follows a significant shift in power dynamics, with rebel forces taking control of Damascus. Russia has been a key ally of Assad throughout the conflict. Asma al Assad, born in London, has also been granted asylum. She has been battling leukemia and was reportedly with her children before fleeing. The British government has stated there has been no request for her to return to the UK.