In a surprising turn of events, the Russian Foreign Ministry announced on Sunday that Syrian President Bashar al-Assad has resigned from his position and left the country, initiating a peaceful transfer of power in the conflict-ridden nation.
According to the ministry’s statement, President Assad decided to step down following negotiations with various participants involved in the armed conflict within the Syrian Arab Republic. “As a result of negotiations between B. Assad and a number of participants in the armed conflict on the territory of the Syrian Arab Republic, he decided to resign from the presidency and left the country, giving instructions for a peaceful transfer of power,” the statement read.
The whereabouts of President Assad remain undisclosed, and Russia emphasized that it did not partake in the discussions leading to his departure. “Russia did not participate in these negotiations,” the ministry asserted.
Expressing concern over the unfolding situation, Moscow urged all parties in Syria to exercise restraint and pursue a non-violent resolution to governance issues. “We urge all parties involved to refrain from the use of violence and to resolve all issues of governance through political means,” the Foreign Ministry stated. “In that regard, the Russian Federation is in contact with all groups of the Syrian opposition.”
In response to the developments, Russia has placed its military bases in Syria on high alert. However, the ministry assured that there is no immediate threat to Russian forces or installations in the region.
The sudden announcement has sent ripples across the international community, with analysts speculating on the potential impacts on the Syrian civil war and regional stability. The peaceful transition could mark a pivotal moment in Syria’s future, offering a glimmer of hope for an end to years of conflict.
As the world watches closely, the focus now turns to how the power transition will unfold and which factions may step forward to lead the nation toward reconciliation and rebuilding.
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Russia says Assad has left country and ordered peaceful power handover
cgtn.com
