Rudolph Angler The Kremlin has denied reports claiming that Asma al-Assad, wife of former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, filed for divorce. Turkish and Arab media suggested that Asma sought to end her marriage and return to the UK, where she was born. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov dismissed the claims, stating, “No, they do not correspond to reality.”
Reports that Bashar al-Assad is confined to Moscow with frozen assets were also rejected by Peskov. The Assad family fled Syria on 8 December, seeking refuge in Moscow after rebels overthrew Assad’s regime.
UK Reacts to Speculation about Asma al-Assad
Although Asma al-Assad holds dual Syrian-British citizenship, UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy affirmed she is not welcome in Britain. “She is a sanctioned individual,” Lammy stated, pledging to ensure no Assad family members enter the UK. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer acknowledged the situation, highlighting the need for legal review before any decisions on her citizenship.
Turkish media reported that Asma al-Assad wants to return to London, claiming the family lives under strict conditions in Moscow. These claims remain unverified.
From Reformer to Controversial Figure
Asma al-Assad, born in London in 1975, was a banker before marrying Bashar al-Assad in 2000. Initially seen as a modern, progressive figure, she became involved in charity and reform efforts early in her husband’s presidency.
However, her reputation shifted as the Syrian Civil War unfolded, with accusations of complicity in the regime’s brutal crackdown. Once a symbol of progress, her image deteriorated amid widespread human rights abuses. Despite this, she continues to publicly support her husband and defend the regime’s actions.