Russia reports Assad resigns and leaves Syria, orders peaceful power transfer

Syrian President Bashar al-Assad has resigned and left the country, according to the Russian Foreign Ministry. He reportedly ordered a peaceful transfer of power after negotiations with various parties involved in the conflict. Russia stated it did not participate in these negotiations but is urging all sides to avoid violence and seek political solutions. The ministry expressed concern over the situation in Syria. Russian military bases in Syria are now on high alert, although the ministry noted there is currently no serious threat to them.