**Russia a “Prison State”, Says Zelenskyy**
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has described Russia as a “prison state” where Moscow maintains control over occupied territories through torture chambers and prisons.
Zelenskyy made the comment on social media, saying that Russian ruler Vladimir Putin would seek revenge for the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime in Syria. Assad fled the country on December 8 after nearly three decades in power.
**Russia Supported Assad**
For ten years, Russia had supported Assad’s regime in exchange for access to strategic ports and airbases. The Syrian leader’s regime survived for so long due to violence and intimidation.
Zelenskyy noted that similar prisons and torture chambers have been used by Russian-backed forces in occupied Donbas and Crimea. He said that Putin would seek revenge for Assad’s fall, citing the dictator’s reliance on other strongmen like Putin.
**Ukrainian President Calls for Unity**
The Ukrainian leader emphasized the need for unity and strength to confront regimes that sow humiliation and suffering. He said that helping Ukraine in its struggle against Russian dictatorship could aid other regions in restoring security and protecting them against violence.
Zelenskyy concluded by saying that only Putin and Assad deserve to be in prison, not innocent people who have been imprisoned for years.
**Related News**
* Syria’s Assad flees Damascus as opposition forces take control of capital
* Ukrainian intel: Russia evacuates military bases as Assad regime falls in Syria
* Ukraine on Assad’s downfall: All who side with Putin will face this, for he always betrays
* Assad’s collapse shatters Russian global power dreams
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