Russian officials have confirmed that they orchestrated the clandestine escape of ousted Syrian President Bashar al-Assad from Syria to Moscow.
This revelation marks a significant development in the ongoing Syrian conflict, as Assad's regime faces mounting pressure from rebel forces.
Sergei Ryabkov, Russia's Deputy Foreign Minister, disclosed that Assad was transported "in the most secure way possible" over the weekend.
The operation was executed from Russia's air base on the Syrian coast, following strategic persuasion that Assad would inevitably lose the battle against the rebels. "He is secured, and it shows that Russia acts as required in such an extraordinary situation," Ryabkov stated, emphasizing the meticulous planning involved in the operation.
The escape comes amid serious allegations against Assad for war crimes, including the use of chemical weapons on civilians.
Despite these accusations, Ryabkov made it clear that Russia has no intention of handing Assad over to the International Criminal Court, citing Russia's non-participation in the convention that established the court.
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