The State Duma proposed to grant Russian citizenship to Bashar Assad

The first deputy chairman of the defense committee of the Russian State Duma, Alexei Zhuravlyov, proposed to grant Russian citizenship to the former president of Syria, Bashar Assad. According to him, Russia has always treated its allies in a humane manner, and taking into account Assad's services for Russia, it is appropriate to implement this initiative.

"Russia shows humanity to all its allies, even if they are defeated. This principle distinguishes Russia from the United States. If Viktor Yanukovych received Russian citizenship, why not give this right to Bashar Assad? Assad has done important things for Russia, although today there are negative opinions about him," Zhuravlyov said.

Bashar al-Assad's long-standing partnership with Russia has been cemented through its activities in Syria. According to the Financial Times, in 2019, Assad's relatives and friends bought 19 apartments in Moscow with a total value of 40 million dollars. Assad's brother Hafiz Makhlouf is the owner of 13 houses.

Real estate is mainly located in the Capital Cities complex and Federation Tower in Moscow. The area of the smallest apartment is 102 square meters.

Bashar Assad is not the only political figure protected by Russia. After the Euromaidan events in 2014, Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovych fled to Russia and still lives there. Also, the wife and son of former Yugoslav leader Slobodan Milosevic took refuge in Russia after the overthrow of the government.

The former president of Kyrgyzstan, Askar Akaev, moved to Russia after the Tulip Revolution in 2005 and is currently working as a teacher in Moscow.

The issue of granting Russian citizenship to Bashar Assad can be discussed based on the country's political principles. Historically, Russia continues the tradition of providing support and protection to its allies in the international arena. Assad's services to Russia and his personal interests may influence this decision.

If this initiative is implemented, it will serve to further deepen Russia's approach to international relations.