Summary
A Reuters investigation found that former supporters of ex-Syrian leader Bashar al-Assad are sending large sums of money from Russia to try and start uprisings against Syria's new government. Two key figures, once close to al-Assad, are leading these efforts from exile in Moscow. The situation adds tension to Syria's transition period one year after al-Assad's fall.
Key Facts
- Former allies of Bashar al-Assad are in Russia trying to fund uprisings in Syria.
- The efforts aim to challenge Syria's new government led by President Ahmed al-Sharaa.
- Major-General Kamal Hassan and billionaire Rami Makhlouf are leading the efforts from Moscow.
- They are targeting Syria's Alawite minority to build militias.
- Hassan claims to control 12,000 fighters, while Makhlouf claims 54,000.
- Financial records show millions of dollars funding these fighters.
- Russia, though hosting these exiles, is supporting Syria's new government.
- The new government is aware of the plots and is preparing to counter them.
