The Kremlin dismissed reports that Asma al-Assad, wife of former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, filed for divorce in Russia. Turkish and Arab media claimed that Asma sought to end her marriage and return to the UK. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov rejected these claims, saying, “No, they do not correspond to reality.”
Peskov also denied allegations that Assad’s movements were restricted in Moscow and his assets had been frozen. The Assad family fled to Russia on 8 December after rebels toppled Bashar al-Assad’s regime, taking refuge in Moscow.
Speculation on Asma al-Assad’s Return to the UK
Turkish media suggested that Asma al-Assad, who holds dual Syrian-British citizenship, expressed interest in returning to London. Born in London in 1975, the former first lady has faced significant backlash in the UK.
Foreign Secretary David Lammy reaffirmed earlier this month, “Asma al-Assad is a sanctioned individual and not welcome in the UK.” Lammy vowed to ensure no member of the Assad family finds sanctuary in Britain, but Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer called for a thorough legal review before action against her citizenship.
The media also claimed the Assad family is living under strict conditions in Moscow, adding to the speculation about her intentions.
From Modern Icon to Controversial Figure
Once viewed as a modern, progressive figure, Asma al-Assad’s image shifted dramatically during the Syrian Civil War. Early in her husband’s presidency, she championed charity work and reform initiatives, symbolizing a Western-friendly face for the Assad regime.
As the war unfolded, her reputation deteriorated amid the regime’s brutal crackdown on opposition and human rights abuses. Despite the controversies, Asma has remained a loyal public figure, often defending Bashar al-Assad and maintaining her role within the regime.