The ousted Syrian dictator Bashar al-Assad reportedly transferred a staggering $135 billion to Russia before fleeing to Moscow. This revelation comes from Khalid Beyye, a former intelligence officer of Assad’s toppled regime, who disclosed the information to the Turkish newspaper Turkiye Gazetesi on December 10, 2024.
The transfer of such a colossal sum has raised eyebrows globally, as it signifies the deep financial ties between Assad and Russia, a country that has been a staunch ally throughout the Syrian conflict.
The funds were allegedly "smuggled out" of Syria, although Beyye did not provide specific details on the mechanisms used for this massive transfer. This financial maneuvering coincides with Assad's flight to Moscow following the fall of his regime, marking a major shift in the geopolitical landscape of the Middle East.
Reports suggest that Assad is likely to settle in the elite Moscow City district, where his family owns more than 20 upscale properties valued at over $30 million.
The collapse of Assad's regime has led to a power vacuum in Syria, with various factions vying for control. A notable conflict has emerged between pro-Russian and pro-Iranian units within Assad’s military.
According to Beyye, the first clash occurred between Aleppo's commander Gen. Muhammed Safadli and Russian-aligned Gen. Süheyl Hasan. This internal strife has further destabilized the region, leading to the rebels advancing towards Damascus.
Russia's involvement in Assad's escape was confirmed by Sergei Ryabkov, Russia's deputy foreign minister, who stated that Assad was transported to Russia "in the most secure way possible."
Despite international calls for Assad to be handed over for trial due to accusations of war crimes, including chemical attacks and systematic torture, Ryabkov indicated that Russia would not comply, as it is not a party to the convention that established the International Criminal Court.
The situation in Syria remains volatile, with fears of a new civil war emerging as various groups, including Turkish-backed forces and Kurdish fighters, clash over territorial control.
Turkey has conducted airstrikes against convoys leaving regime bases, aiming to prevent weapons from reaching Kurdish groups. Meanwhile, Israel has targeted Syria's navy in Latakia, further complicating the post-Assad scenario.
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