In Aleppo's city centre, the huge billboard in the main square with a picture of President Bashar al-Assad, which used to be a feature in any Syrian town and village, was set on fire, then removed. The red, white and black national flags that decorated the ...

Rebel fighters who took control of Aleppo about two weeks ago have promised security and continuity. Prices have skyrocketed, but residents express some hope for the future.

Assad’s favor after a Russian blitzkrieg on Aleppo helped him regain control over the country’s second biggest city.