Bashar al-Assad Reportedly Poisoned in Russia Amidst Political Turmoil

Reports indicate an attempt to assassinate former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad through poisoning while he was in Russia. Assad was rushed to a hospital. He is currently recovering. The former leader was ousted from Syrian leadership 10 months ago, and since then, he has lived in Moscow. Russia has provided security for Assad and his family. The motives behind the poisoning are speculated to be an effort to damage Russia’s reputation and frame the nation for the act. The Syrian Human Rights Organization reported that Assad has left the hospital near Moscow. His brother, Maher, visited him during his hospital stay. The Russian authorities have not yet released a statement on the matter.