Bashar Assad and Money Transfer to Moscow
Dec 16, 2024 - 4:04 AM EST
Bashar Assad, the former President of Syria who was overthrown in December 2024, reportedly transferred significant amounts of money to Moscow. These actions have sparked interest and speculation about financial ties between the two countries.
Assad's Financial Operations:
According to information published in the Financial Times, from 2018 to 2019, when Assad was still in power, the Central Bank of Syria sent planes with cash to Moscow. It's claimed that these were millions of dollars and euros, transported in 21 flights. Approximately 2 tons of currency, equivalent to about $250 million, were reportedly moved. Such operations might have been related to circumventing Western sanctions and ensuring financial support for Assad's regime amid war and economic crisis.
Response and Consequences:
Russia provided Assad and his family with asylum after his overthrow. Many see this not only as a humanitarian gesture but also as a political maneuver that could have economic and geopolitical implications. Social media posts and articles suggest that this money might have been used for investments in Russian assets or to secure the personal wealth of the Assad family in exile.
Criticism and Analysis:
Critics argue that such actions undermine Syria's sovereignty and exemplify corruption and wealth accumulation at the expense of the people. However, Assad's supporters and some analysts might see this as a survival strategy when other financial avenues were closed due to sanctions and military actions.
The situation with Bashar Assad transferring money to Moscow raises many questions about international relations, economic policy, and ethics in the context of military conflict. These actions, verified by various sources, illustrate the complexity and entanglement of modern geopolitical games where finance and politics are closely intertwined.
It should be remembered that information on this topic can be contentious and often requires further confirmation, considering the political tension and propaganda surrounding this issue.