Russian media outlets including news agency Tass have reported, citing unnamed Kremlin sources, that Bashar Assad is in Moscow.
"Assad and members of his family arrived in Moscow. Russia, based on humanitarian considerations, granted them asylum," Tass quoted an unnamed Kremlin source as saying, DW reports.
Syrian President Bashar Assad has fled to Moscow early Sunday after losing control of Damascus to rebel forces in a swift and dramatic advance that ended his family’s half-century-long rule.
Russian state media reported that Assad was granted asylum by Moscow, his longtime ally, following negotiations with insurgent groups.
The rebel victory sparked widespread celebrations in Damascus, with residents taking to the streets to mark what they called a new chapter for Syria.
Gunfire echoed in celebration as people waved revolutionary flags, reminiscent of the Arab Spring protests that initially called for reforms before spiraling into Syria’s nearly 14-year-long civil war.
U.S. President Joe Biden hailed Assad's downfall as a “fundamental act of justice,” crediting international efforts to weaken Assad’s allies, including Russia, Iran, and Hezbollah. However, Biden acknowledged the risks and uncertainties ahead, emphasizing the need to evaluate the actions of the victorious rebel factions.