Bashar Assad flees to Russia as Syrian civil war escalates

Syrian President Bashar Assad has fled to Russia, marking a significant shift in his nearly 14-year rule amid ongoing civil war. This departure follows a long struggle to maintain power as the conflict drew in international and regional forces. Bashar Assad rose to power in 2000 after the death of his father, Hafez Assad. Initially seen as a reformer, he faced increasing unrest starting in 2011, leading to a brutal crackdown on protests that escalated into a civil war. Asma Assad, Bashar's wife, gained attention for her stylish image but faced criticism for lavish spending during the war. She has recently been diagnosed with leukemia, which has limited her public appearances.