Today in Focus What the Assads did next
Jan 15, 2026
Pyotr Sauer, a Russian affairs reporter for The Guardian, and Will Christou, the Middle East correspondent, delve into the intriguing life of the Assad family in Moscow after their regime's fall. They recount the dramatic evacuation of Bashar al-Assad to Russia amid chaos in Damascus. Sauer highlights the family’s luxurious and guarded lifestyle in Rublyovka, while Christou discusses the dark legacy of their rule, including uncovered human rights abuses and the complexities of seeking justice for their crimes.
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Living Next To Moscow's Hidden Elite
- Pyotr Sauer grew up near Rublyovka and describes its gated, secretive character firsthand.
- He explains neighbors often don't know who lives next door, illustrating how secluded elites stay hidden.
Damascus Fell In Hours
- Will Christou recounts Damascus falling in hours, with rebels entering the capital unexpectedly quickly.
- He describes scenes of celebration and people shooting into the air as they realised Bashar al-Assad had fled.
Russia's Long Strategic Loyalty
- Pyotr traces Russia–Syria ties back to the Soviet era and shows Putin repeatedly propped up Assad to preserve strategic influence.
- He argues Putin offered asylum partly from loyalty and to protect Russia's bases and geopolitical position.