Russia grants asylum to deposed Syrian President Bashar al-Assad

Russia has granted asylum to deposed Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, confirmed Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov. The decision, made by President Vladimir Putin, follows a rapid advance by opposition forces in Syria. Peskov did not disclose al-Assad's location. Reports indicate al-Assad was evacuated by a Russian plane from Latakia. The Kremlin is assessing the impact of this decision on its military bases in Syria, particularly in Tartous and Hmeimim. Peskov stated it is too early to determine the future of these bases. The situation in Syria has become more complex with the rise of the opposition alliance led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham. Russia is in contact with regional players, including Turkey, and remains open to dialogue amid growing instability in the region.