President-elect Trump took to his social media platform, Truth Social, to react to the news that Syrian dictator Bashar Assad had fled Syria after rebels stormed the capital city of Damascus. Trump stated that Assad had fled the country and attributed his departure to Russia's lack of interest in protecting him any longer, particularly due to their focus on the conflict in Ukraine.
Trump highlighted the weakened state of Russia and Iran, mentioning Ukraine's desire for a ceasefire and negotiations to end the ongoing conflict. He emphasized the need to prevent further loss of lives and families being destroyed, urging for immediate action from world leaders like Vladimir Putin and China.
Reports indicated that Assad, known for using chemical weapons on his population, fled with his wife and children, although their destination remained unknown. Syrian state TV broadcasted a video statement announcing Assad's overthrow and the release of all prisoners.
Syrian Prime Minister Mohammad Ghazi al-Jalali expressed uncertainty about Assad's whereabouts, while crowds in Damascus celebrated his departure. The civil war in Syria, spanning nearly 14 years, has been marked by intense fighting as rebel groups aimed to overthrow Assad's regime and end decades of family rule.
