Exiled Syrian ex-First Lady Asma al-Assad files for divorce from Bashar al-Assad, seeks escape from asylum in Moscow

Asma al-Assad, the wife of deposed Syrian president Bashar al-Assad, has filed for divorce in a Russian court and is seeking special permission to leave Moscow. Reports indicate that Asma is dissatisfied with her life in exile and is eager to return to London in the United Kingdom, where she holds dual citizenship.

Bashar-al-Assad's wife, Asma's application for permission to leave is currently under evaluation by Russian authorities.

Who is Asma Al-Assad?

Born in London to Syrian parents, Asma moved to Syria in 2000 at the age of 25 and married Bashar al-Assad shortly thereafter. 

Following the collapse of her husband Bashar al-Assad's regime amid escalating conflict in Syria, the al-Assad family sought refuge in Russia, where they face significant restrictions.

Bashar al-Assad's asylum status prohibits him from leaving Moscow or engaging in political activities, and Russian authorities have frozen his assets. 

Asma's decision to file for divorce adds another layer of complexity to their already precarious situation.

Asma's reported unhappiness in Moscow has raised concerns about her well-being, particularly as she has been diagnosed with leukaemia.

Earlier, a report by Financial Times had stated that former First Lady of Syria, Asma al-Assad, an ex-JP Morgan banker, has played a pivotal role in influencing international aid and leading a secretive presidential economic council.

According to people in the know, Asma al-Assad is seeking adequate medical treatment that she feels is unavailable in Russia. 

The potential divorce could have significant implications for the Assad family's future as they navigate the challenges of their diminished political influence and uncertain living conditions.

Al-Assad Family in Exile

Bashar al-Assad, the ousted Syrian president, and his family have been granted asylum in Moscow after fleeing the country following a swift offensive by rebels from Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS). This marked the end of over five decades of authoritarian rule in Syria by the Assad family.

Reports indicated that Russian authorities provided asylum on humanitarian grounds. Following their arrival, Russian authorities have frozen Bashar al-Assad's assets, which reportedly include 270 kilograms of gold, USD 2 billion, and 18 apartments located in Moscow.

Bashar al-Assad served as Syria’s president for 24 years after succeeding his father, Hafez al-Assad, who ruled for nearly three decades.