The fall of Assad is a crucial step forward in the global fight for freedom

The Ukrainian World Congress (UWC) celebrates the historic victory of the Syrian people in overthrowing Bashar al-Assad’s brutal dictatorship – one that endured nearly 25 years, propped up by Russia and Iran. This triumph sends a clear message: authoritarian regimes backed by Russia can be toppled, and Russia itself can be defeated.

We call on the global democratic community to seize this moment. As Russia weakens, it is critical to unite in support of Ukraine and its people in their fight against Russian aggression. 

“Syria is a powerful reminder to the free world: Russia and its tyrannical allies can and must be defeated. This is a direct consequence of Russia’s failure in Ukraine, where the heroic resistance of the Ukrainian people has exposed the Kremlin’s vulnerability,” said UWC President Paul Grod. “In this pivotal moment, we urge Ukraine’s allies to stand firm, united, and take decisive action to secure victory for democracy and international law.”

The fall of Assad, Vladimir Putin’s long-time ally and puppet, delivers a heavy blow to both Russia and Iran, eroding their influence across the Middle East and North Africa. This defeat also shatters their dreams of regional and global dominance.

For years, Assad’s regime was sustained by fear, violence, and Russia’s military support. Moscow’s intervention in Syria in 2015 – marked by devastating airstrikes that flattened entire cities – was a testament to Russian military power. It turned Syria into a Russian client state, but now that Russia is stretched thin by its catastrophic war in Ukraine, its grip on authoritarian regimes is faltering. Assad’s fall is not just a blow to the Assad regime – it’s a clear signal that Russian power is crumbling.

“We must recognize the trail of devastation that Russia leaves in its wake. With the Syrian people now freed from the grip of a ruthless dictator and his Kremlin backers, it’s imperative to end Russia’s reign of terror in Ukraine. The time for hesitation is over. Democracies across the globe must unite and lead the charge for a decisive victory against authoritarianism!” Grod added.