ALBAWABA - The Kremlin has refuted claims circulated by Turkish media that Asma al-Assad, wife of Syria's former president Bashar al-Assad, has filed for divorce and intends to leave Russia.
Speaking to reporters on Monday, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov denied allegations that restrictions had been imposed on Bashar al-Assad's movements and that his real estate assets were frozen. “No, this information does not reflect reality,” Peskov said in response to the reports.
Turkish and Arab media sources previously reported that Asma al-Assad had expressed dissatisfaction with her new life in Moscow and was seeking a divorce as a precursor to relocating to London. According to these reports, Asma, who holds British citizenship, had initiated divorce proceedings in a Russian court, citing her leukemia diagnosis and inadequate medical facilities in Moscow as key reasons for her move.
Reports further stated that her mother, Sahar al-Atri, had engaged a high-profile British legal firm to facilitate the legal process. Allegedly, plans were underway for Asma to rebuild her life in London, with her mother actively supporting the move.
The Assad family fled to Russia earlier this month after the Syrian opposition captured Damascus on December 8, effectively ending Bashar al-Assad's rule. Once regarded as Syria’s "First Lady," Asma now reportedly faces an uncertain future in Moscow, grappling with isolation and concerns over her health.
The reports have also fueled speculation about her long-term intentions, with some suggesting that Asma views her return to London as a pathway to reestablish her life amidst growing international scrutiny.
Asma al-Assad’s legal challenges are not limited to divorce proceedings. She faces allegations of corruption and illicit enrichment, which could require financial settlements if she relocates to the UK. These accusations include claims that she gained control over significant assets once held by Rami Makhlouf, Bashar al-Assad’s cousin.
Asma’s financial acumen, bolstered by her banking career with institutions like Deutsche Bank and JPMorgan, reportedly played a critical role in her family’s wealth accumulation. However, allegations of unlawful enrichment and corruption remain significant obstacles in her pursuit of a new life in England.
While reports highlight Asma’s intention to return to London, legal experts caution that the move would require more than health-related justifications. Divorce from Bashar al-Assad and resolution of financial disputes are seen as prerequisites to her return.
Despite these challenges, analysts suggest that Asma’s financial resources and connections may provide her with the means to navigate these legal hurdles. For now, however, the Kremlin firmly denies all claims regarding her divorce and dissatisfaction with life in Moscow.
