Russia Less Than Enthusiastic Host to Exiled Assad Family

Despite approving the plans to extract Syrian President Bashar al-Assad and his family and give them asylum in Moscow, Russian President Vladimir Putin has not shown signs of meeting with the former Syrian leader. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov indicated that no meeting is scheduled, and official statements regarding Assad’s whereabouts remain scarce. This secrecy has fueled speculation about the growing distance between the Kremlin and Assad, following years of significant Russian financial and military support.

Putin’s anger over the collapse of Assad’s government has reportedly led to internal tensions. Russian officials have questioned why intelligence agencies did not foresee the threat posed by HTS sooner. This setback comes after nearly half a century of Assad family rule in Syria and underscores Russia's concerns about its military bases in the region.

While Assad flees to Russia, a wave of Syrian refugees are returning to their home country from neighboring Turkey. However, the return is not without complications, as Syria's infrastructure remains shattered and many refugees face legal challenges regarding property rights and official documentation.

For some, Assad's fall offers a chance for reconciliation and return, while others are hesitant, fearing that Syria could slip back into chaos. Human rights activists and legal experts caution that returning prematurely could lead to losses or unresolved issues.

Turkey, hosting millions of Syrian refugees, has announced measures to facilitate the return of Syrians, allowing 24/7 border crossings. This move is seen as an attempt to relieve pressure on Turkish cities, where opposition parties have used the refugee issue to challenge the government. Many refugees who lived in Turkey for years are grappling with the realities of returning to a Syria they barely recognize.