Janice R. Andrews
The Kremlin has denied recent reports from Turkish and Arab media alleging that Asma al-Assad, the wife of former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, has filed for divorce in Russia. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov dismissed these claims, stating during a news briefing, “No, they do not correspond to reality.”
The reports also suggested that Assad had been restricted to Moscow and that his assets had been frozen, but Peskov denied these allegations as well.
On December 8, the Assad family fled Syria, seeking refuge in Russia following the overthrow of Bashar al-Assad’s regime by rebels. Turkish media further claimed that Asma al-Assad, a British-Syrian citizen, is seeking to end her marriage and leave Russia.
Russia has long been a key supporter of Syria, providing military and diplomatic backing throughout the civil war that began in 2011. Despite this support, rumors of Asma’s desire to return to London have sparked global attention.
UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy recently confirmed that Asma al-Assad remains under sanctions and is “not welcome” in the UK. Lammy expressed his commitment to ensuring no member of the Assad family can gain entry to the country. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer called for further legal review before taking any action on her citizenship.
Asma al-Assad, born in London in 1975, was once seen as a modern and progressive figure. Prior to her marriage in 2000, she had a career in banking and was involved in charitable and reform efforts during the early years of her husband’s presidency.
However, her public image soured as the Syrian Civil War intensified, and her role in supporting the regime’s brutal crackdown on opposition led to widespread condemnation. Despite this, she remains a prominent figure, staunchly defending her husband’s actions and the regime’s position.
The Kremlin’s rejection of the divorce rumors highlights the sensitive nature of the Assad family’s presence in Russia amidst ongoing international scrutiny.
