Russia grants asylum to former Syrian president Assad and ensures secure transport

Russia has granted asylum to former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, who was ousted by rebels. The Kremlin confirmed that President Vladimir Putin made this decision, and Russia's deputy foreign minister stated that Assad was transported securely to Russia. This development marks a significant setback for Iran and Russia, who had supported Assad during Syria's civil war. The new interim leader of Syria has announced his role as caretaker prime minister with support from the former rebels. Additionally, Russia expressed openness to considering a new prisoner swap, similar to a previous exchange involving a journalist and a former U.S. Marine.