In a stunning turn of events, a group of men hoisted the Syrian opposition flag at the Syrian embassy in Moscow on Monday morning, as confirmed by an AFP journalist on the scene. The men, positioned on the embassy balcony, celebrated their action with applause and singing amidst a backdrop of falling snow. The flag, a striking green, red, black, and white banner, replaced the Assad regime’s flag, symbolizing a significant shift in the perception of power in the ongoing Syrian conflict.
An embassy representative, speaking to the Russian state news agency TASS, declared, “Today the embassy opened and is working normally under a new flag.” This statement comes against the backdrop of a rapidly changing political landscape in Syria. Hours before this symbolic act in Moscow, reports emerged that Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, a long-time ally of Russia, had fled Damascus as Islamist-led rebel forces gained control of significant parts of the capital city in a swift and decisive offensive.
The Kremlin confirmed Assad’s presence in Moscow on Sunday, adding further weight to the unfolding drama. A Kremlin source revealed to Russian news agencies that Assad and his family had sought refuge in Russia, seeking safety amidst the turmoil in his homeland. This source also claimed that the rebels, in their advance, had provided assurances regarding the security of Russian military bases and diplomatic missions situated within Syria. This statement suggests a complex power dynamic at play, with the rebels apparently seeking to assure continued cooperation with Russia, a crucial supporter of the Assad regime.
The raising of the opposition flag in Moscow represents a powerful visual symbol of the changing political tides in Syria. The event underscores the instability and uncertainty within the country, and the significant implications of Russia’s role in the conflict. The incident further fuels speculation regarding the future of the Syrian conflict, the ongoing struggle for power, and the implications for the regional balance of power. The coming days and weeks are sure to bring significant developments as the situation in Syria continues to evolve.
