Russia’s foreign ministry Russia has confirmed that Syrian President Bashar al-Assad has left the country after ordering a “peaceful transfer” of power.

In its statement, the ministry did not specify where Assad is now.

Moscow has been alarmed by developments in Syria and its bases on Syrian soil have been put on high alert. At present, however, there is no “serious threat” to the security of Russian military bases.

Russia, the statement noted, has not participated in talks related to the handover of power, although it is in contact “with all opposition groups” in Syria. At the same time, it called on all sides to avoid violence and resolve problems peacefully.

Finally, the ministry assured that Russia is taking all necessary measures to ensure the safety of Russians in Syria.