Kremlin dismisses reports of Asma al-Assad's divorce in international media

The Kremlin has denied reports that Asma al-Assad, the wife of former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, filed for divorce in Russia. The claims, which were reported by Turkish and Arab media, were dismissed by Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov during a news conference, saying, "No, they do not correspond to reality."

Peskov also denied reports suggesting that Assad had been confined to Moscow and that his property assets had been frozen.

The Assad family fled Syria on 8 December, seeking refuge in Russia's capital after rebels overthrew Assad's long-standing regime. Turkish media reports have claimed that Asma al-Assad, who was born in the UK, sought to end her marriage and leave Russia.

Russia played a critical role in supporting Syria during its civil war, which began in 2011, intervening both militarily and diplomatically on several occasions.

Although Asma al-Assad holds dual Syrian-British citizenship, UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy stated earlier this month during a parliamentary address, "I want it confirmed that she's a sanctioned individual and is not welcome here in the UK." He added that he would do "everything I can in my power" to ensure no member of the Assad family "finds a place in the UK."

While Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer acknowledged concerns about her actions, he emphasised the need for further legal review before any action could be taken regarding her citizenship.

Turkish media suggested that the former first lady, who was born in London in 1975, wanted to return to London, and that the family is living under strict conditions in the Russian capital.

Asma al-Assad, who had a career in banking before marrying Bashar al-Assad in 2000, was once portrayed as a modern, progressive figure. Early in her husband's presidency, she was involved in charity work and reform initiatives.

However, her image shifted dramatically as the Syrian Civil War unfolded. Initially seen as a symbol of a more Western-friendly face for the Assad regime, her reputation became tarnished amid the brutal crackdown on opposition movements and widespread human rights abuses.

She has remained a prominent public figure, often defending her husband's actions and maintaining loyalty to the regime.