Kremlin denies Asma al-Assad's divorce attempt

In recent developments surrounding the former Syrian president Bashar al-Assad and his wife Asma, media reports have circulated regarding a potential divorce. Asma al-Assad, a British-born dual national, was said to be living under severe restrictions in Moscow. Following the overthrow of her husband's regime, the couple was granted asylum in Russia, where they currently reside with their three children. Rumors emerged from Turkish and Arab media claiming that Asma had filed for divorce in a Russian court, expressing her dissatisfaction with life in Moscow and her desire to return to the UK. However, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov publicly dismissed these claims during a news conference, categorically stating that the reports do not correspond to reality. He confirmed that Asma had not filed for divorce, and he also denied assertions that Bashar al-Assad was confined to Moscow or that his assets had been frozen by Russian authorities. Peskov's statements highlight the ongoing speculation surrounding the Assad family's living conditions and their future. Asma al-Assad has kept a low profile since her husband's presidency began to crumble. Reports have indicated that the family is facing personal and financial restrictions after the fall of the Assad regime and the subsequent turmoil in Syria. The British government has labeled Asma as a persona non grata, complicating any prospects of her returning to the UK, which she reportedly desires. British Foreign Secretary David Lammy reiterated that Asma al-Assad would not be permitted back into the UK, underscoring the international fallout from the actions of her husband during the Syrian civil war. Moreover, Asma has been under medical treatment for leukemia, continuing to garner attention amidst the family’s ongoing saga. The alleged divorce and rumors of fleeing to the UK come against the backdrop of international condemnation of Bashar al-Assad's regime, accused of severe human rights violations during the years of conflict. The Kremlin's stance appears to be an attempt to shield the Assad family from further scrutiny or possible sanctions as they navigate their status as asylum seekers in Russia. This situation continues to evolve as the political dynamics in the region change and the implications for the Assads remain uncertain.