Syrian ambassador to Moscow requests asylum in Russia TASS reports

MOSCOW - Syrias ambassador to Moscow has requested asylum in Russia, state news agency TASS reported on April 14, citing a source.

The Russian news outlet provided no further details on the reported request by Mr Bashar Jaafari, who was appointed ambassador to Russia in 2022 after 15 years as Syrias permanent representative to the United Nations.

The Lebanon-based, pro-Iran al-Mayadeen television station later reported that it had received Mr Jaafari’s denial of the news, without providing details.

Reuters was not able to immediately contact Mr Jaafari, 69. Syrias embassy in Moscow did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Russian President Vladimir Putin granted asylum to former Syrian president Bashar al-Assad when he fled to Moscow with his family after being toppled by a lightning rebel offensive at the end of last year.

Syrias foreign ministry last week recalled Mr Jaafari and Syrias ambassador to Saudi Arabia to Damascus, state media reported, saying the move was part of a reorganisation of the diplomatic corps after Mr Assads fall.

Mr Jaafari had been one of the most well-known international representatives of the former regime. He had been vocal in his defence of the Syrian government during the countrys 14-year civil war, including his denial it had carried out chemical weapons attacks.

Moscow has supported Damascus since the early days of the Cold War, recognising its independence in 1944 as Syria sought to throw off French colonial rule.

Syria is also home to two important Russian military bases - the Hmeimim airbase in Latakia province and a naval facility at Tartous on the coast. Russia is seeking to retain control of these as it builds ties with the countrys new leadership. REUTERS