The Kremlin dismissed on Monday media reports claiming that Asma al-Assad, the British-born wife of former Syria’s President Bashar al-Assad, sought a divorce and intended to leave Russia.
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov also denied reports suggesting that Bashar al-Assad had been confined to Moscow and had his assets frozen.
When asked during a conference call if the claims were accurate, Peskov responded, “No, they do not correspond to reality,” Reuters quoted.
Media reported on Sunday that Asma al-Assad had filed for divorce in Russia, where the Assad family was reportedly granted asylum earlier this month following Syria’s upheaval.
In his first statement on Dec 16, Bashar al-Assad said that his departure from Syria was neither planned nor an act of surrender, explaining that it occurred amidst growing violence that reached Damascus on the evening of December 7.
Assad categorically denied claims that he sought refuge or considered stepping down. Instead, he reaffirmed his commitment to Syria, stating that he “had never abandoned his people, soldiers, or allies despite facing overwhelming challenges.”