What the Assads did next

In this episode, The Guardian crew examines the life of Bashar al-Assad and his family after they escaped to Moscow following the collapse of his regime in Syria. Assad's family now resides in the elite Ryblyovka neighborhood, known for its luxurious mansions and strict security. Since arriving in Russia, little has been heard about their lives, leading to a detailed investigation by reporters Will Christou and Pyotr Sauer.

The narrative jumps back to December 2024, when Assad fled Syria amidst a rapid collapse of his regime. Reports from that time describe both the chaos of his flight and the jubilation of ordinary Syrians celebrating his downfall. Over the long years of Assad's rule, evidence of severe human rights abuses—including mass graves and a network of secret prisons—has emerged in stark contrast to the privileged life the Assads are living now.

Investigators present insight into Assad’s sheltered life in Russia, where he reportedly takes ophthalmology classes and is closely monitored by Russian security forces. This isolation also reflects a lack of connection with Russian elites, who view him as a diminished figure.

The discussion also addresses the finances of the Assad family, revealing their investments in real estate and sources of income, making their opulent lifestyle possible. Despite rumors of a desire to interact socially and regain some public presence, Kremlin directives keep them in the shadows, focused on rebuilding ties with new Syrian authorities.

Insight into the rest of the family includes their social activities in Moscow, attendance at elite educational institutions, and affluent lifestyles, while health concerns regarding Asma, Assad's wife, show signs of recovery after treatment in Russia. The episode concludes with an examination of the implications of Assad's exile regarding accountability for crimes committed during his reign and the continuing impact of his regime's legacy on Syria's ongoing recovery.