In brief
Amid rumors of divorce and a desire to return to the UK, the Kremlin asserts Asma al-Assad is not ending her marriage, emphasizing the stability of the Assad family's situation in Russia.
Asma al-Assad, the British-born wife of former Syrian president Bashar al-Assad, has been the center of speculation regarding her marital status. Reports from Turkish media indicated that she wished to end her marriage and escape to London after the couple was granted asylum in Russia. However, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov quickly denied these claims, stating, "No, they do not correspond to reality." He refuted reports suggesting that Assad was being held against his will in Moscow and denied any freezing of their assets.Historically, Russia has been a key ally to the Assad regime, providing military support throughout Syria's civil war. Despite earlier Turkish reports suggesting otherwise, Peskov reassured that both Assads are not facing any severe restrictions in the Russian capital.As a dual Syrian-British national, Asma has faced challenges regarding her future. UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy has clarified that she is sanctioned and not allowed to return to the UK, asserting his commitment to ensuring no member of the Assad family has a presence there. Asma al-Assad's story has evolved since she was highlighted in a 2011 Vogue profile, where she was described as "a rose in the desert." However, her silence during the oppressive actions of her husband led to strong criticism. She has recently battled serious health issues, including cancer, but remains a controversial figure in both Syria and abroad.
