Asma al-Assad Seeks Divorce Amid Moscow Exile, Plans Return to London

Asma al-Assad, the London-born wife of ousted Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, has reportedly filed for divorce in a Russian court, citing dissatisfaction with life in Moscow. Asma, a dual British-Syrian national, is seeking permission to leave Russia and plans to return to London, where her Syrian parents raised her. Married to Bashar since 2000, the same year he assumed the Syrian presidency, Asma’s decision marks a significant personal shift amid the fallout from her husband’s political downfall.

Bashar al-Assad, who ruled Syria for over two decades, was granted asylum in Russia after being overthrown earlier this month by a rebel coalition led by Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS). Though given refuge, Bashar faces severe restrictions, including an inability to leave Moscow or engage in political activities. Russian authorities have also frozen his assets, which reportedly include 270 kilograms of gold, $2 billion, and 18 apartments in Moscow. His brother, Maher al-Assad, remains under house arrest in Russia, awaiting a decision on his own asylum request.

The dramatic ousting of Bashar al-Assad follows a turbulent period in Syria, culminating in his flight to Moscow with substantial cash reserves. HTS, despite its designation as a terrorist organization by the U.S., led the offensive that toppled Assad’s regime. Washington recently lifted a $10 million bounty on HTS leader Abu Mohammad al-Julani, signaling shifting dynamics in the region. The Assads’ fall from power underscores the precarious nature of exile, even under the protection of a major ally like Russia.

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