I Resigned On Russia’s Request, Says Ousted Syrian Leader
2 years ago 2 min read
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Former Syrian leader, Bashar al-Assad, on Monday, said he was determined to continue fighting the rebels in the country but had to leave due to a request from Russia.
In his first statement since the fall of his regime on December 8, posted on the Syrian presidency’s telegram channel, Assad said he had no intention to step down during the conflicts.
According to the statement, he left Damascus for Russia on 8 December – “a day after the fall” of the city.
“At no point during these events did I consider stepping down or seeking refugee. The only course of action was to continue fighting against the terrorist onslaught,” Assad said.
He claimed to have remained in the city, “carrying out my duties,” until the rebels breached its defences.
Coordinating with Russian forces, Assad said he was then relocated to Moscow’s base in the coastal province of Latakia.
Despite the collapse of his forces and the dramatic loss of territory, Assad said he intended to keep fighting until the last possible moment. However, as the airbase where he was stationed came under drone attack, Russia intervened.
“With no viable means of leaving the base, Moscow requested that the base’s command arrange an immediate evacuation to Russia on the evening of Sunday, December 8,” he explained.
The former leader left the Syrian capital following a lightning offensive by anti-regime forces across the country, bringing to an end, his 24-year rule and over 50 years of his family’s dominance in Syria.
In his statement, Assad positioned himself as a leader who prioritized the nation’s well-being over personal ambition. “I have never sought positions for personal gain,” he said.
“I considered myself a custodian of a national project, supported by the faith of the Syrian people,” he added, but did not mention if he plans to return to Syria.
