By John Q. Hosedrinker 
Unverified reports indicate Syrian leader Bashar al-Assad suffered a suspected poisoning in Moscow on Sunday, experiencing severe respiratory distress. Initial medical intervention at his residence reportedly stabilized his condition, though tests allegedly revealed traces of poison. Russian authorities have yet to confirm the incident, but an investigation is underway. Assad and his family have been residing in Moscow since the recent collapse of the Syrian Baath regime.
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Unverified reports alleging a poisoning attempt on Syrian President Bashar al-Assad in Moscow have surfaced, sparking considerable online speculation. The reports, originating from sources considered unreliable, suggest a potential shift in the relationship between Russia and Assad. The timing is interesting, considering Assad’s declining utility to Putin.
The narrative circulating focuses on the idea that Assad’s presence in Moscow has become a liability for Putin. Assad’s continued existence is seen as a negative reflection on Russia’s image. This assertion is strengthened by the suggestion that Putin might be motivated to eliminate Assad to secure favorable arrangements with the new Syrian regime, possibly involving military bases or fleet access. There’s a sense that Assad has outlived his usefulness.
The alleged poisoning attempt further fuels speculation about the financial incentives behind this potential act. Several comments suggest Assad may have transferred significant funds, potentially hundreds of millions or even billions of dollars, to Russia. This financial transaction could explain Russia’s willingness to initially offer Assad asylum. Now, however, with the money secured, the perceived need to keep him alive has diminished.
The methods discussed range from the classic “polonium tea” to a more dramatic “fall from a window.” The choice of method raises questions about the professionalism of the attempt. If indeed an attempt was made, its perceived clumsiness is seen as a departure from the typically thorough and ruthless methods associated with Russian intelligence operations. This has led to a consensus that someone potentially “messed up.”
The potential consequences of assassinating Assad in Moscow are also a major point of contention. The implications for future Russian alliances are significant; eliminating Assad would send a chilling message to other potential allies, suggesting that Russia offers no true protection, even on its own soil. This could potentially lead to a decline in trust and a reluctance for other leaders to seek refuge in Russia, negating the benefit of keeping Assad as a visible sign of Russia’s influence.
Counterarguments suggest that Assad’s continued presence holds value for Putin as leverage. His wealth, the billions he allegedly transferred to Russian banks before fleeing Syria, and his daily payments to Putin for lodging, all suggest a considerable financial incentive to maintain his survival. The potential repercussions for Russia’s image and future relationships, however, might outweigh these monetary gains.
While the credibility of the initial reports remains questionable, the online discussion highlights several plausible motives for a potential attempt on Assad’s life. The lack of verifiable information allows for wide-ranging speculation. The sheer volume of comments underscores the global interest and the profound uncertainty surrounding the situation. In the end, whether it was a bungled poisoning attempt, an accident, or simply a rumour, the alleged incident serves as a compelling illustration of the complex geopolitical gamesmanship at play between Russia and Syria. The overall sentiment emphasizes the unpredictability of the situation and the potential for further developments. In essence, the story highlights the volatility of international relations and the high stakes involved in the power dynamics between nations.