Russian President Vladimir Putin reportedly lost confidence in former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad months before his regime collapsed and even explored the possibility of replacing him with his wife, Asma al-Assad, according to a new investigative report published by the British newspaper The Observer.

The report paints an unusual picture of the relationship between Putin and Assad during the final months of the Syrian regime. According to the investigation, as Assad’s government weakened in the months leading up to its collapse in December 2024, the Kremlin considered installing Asma al-Assad as Syria’s new leader after concluding that her husband was no longer capable of effectively governing the country.

Citing multiple sources, The Observer reported that Asma al-Assad, who was born in Britain and previously worked as an investment banker, had long played a far more influential role than that of a ceremonial first lady. According to the report, she became a central figure in decision-making within the presidential palace and exercised significant control over the regime’s economic power centers. Business leaders who refused to cooperate with her associates allegedly faced tax investigations, sanctions, and the closure of their companies. Her extensive involvement in running the country reportedly drew criticism over the years from senior regime officials, intelligence figures, and members of Syria’s business community.

The investigation further claims that Putin personally raised the idea with Bashar al-Assad of transferring power to his wife. However, the Syrian leader reportedly rejected the proposal outright. When rebel forces launched the offensive that ultimately brought down the regime in December 2024, Russia refrained from mounting any significant military intervention. Assad fled to Moscow on December 8, where he has remained under political asylum ever since, while international arrest warrants against him remain outstanding.

According to the report, Asma al-Assad had already left Syria in August 2024 to receive medical treatment in Russia. Since then, she has reportedly traveled between Dubai and other international destinations. Although she is barred from entering Britain and European Union member states, the report claims she spends considerable time in Dubai, where the Assad family owns luxury properties.

{Matzav.com}