Former Syrian leader Bashar al Assad has issued his first statement since the fall of his regime.
In a social media post, he said he had planned to keep fighting rebel forces before Russia evacuated him.
The comments, the first in public since his regime was toppled more than a week ago, were made on the Syrian presidency’s Telegram channel.
From eye doctor to dictator – the rise and fall of Assad
Assad’s face covers the facade of a provincial government office in the aftermath of the opposition’s takeover.
Pic: AP
The statement said he left Damascus for Russia on 8 December – “a day after the fall” of the city, adding: “At no point during these events did I consider stepping down or seeking refugee.
“The only course of action was to continue fighting against the terrorist onslaught.”
The end of the statement mentions a “hope that Syria will once again be free and independent”.
Mr Assad left the Syrian capital following a lightning offensive by anti-regime forces across the country – bringing his 24-year rule to an end.
His whereabouts, as well as those of his wife Asma and their three children, were initially unknown.
Russia said Mr Assad had left Syria after negotiations with the rebel groups.
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