Deposed Syrian President Bashar al-Assad was 'poisoned in Moscow while under Vladimir Putin's protection', report claims

The 60-year-old former tyrant was granted political asylum by Mr Putin having been ousted from his position of power 10 months ago.

The report claimed that Mr Assad was "poisoned" in an effort to "embarrass the Russian Government and accuse it of being complicit" in his death.

It added that his condition was now "stable".

His brother Maher Assad is said to have been able to visit him while he was in the hospital on the outskirts of Moscow where a major security operation was underway.

The Russian Government is yet to comment on the claims.

Mr Assad's extradition has been demanded by the new authorities in Syria, however Moscow has continued to refuse.

He has been living under Mr Putin's protection alongside members of his families and regime associates since December 8 last year.

Despite this, Mr Assad has not been seen in public since his arrival in Russia and it is thought he is under close protection by Russian secret services.

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An earlier report claimed the former tyrant "complained to his security about feeling unwell and having trouble breathing" after being in Russia for less than a month.

It is the second claim of an assassination attempt which has been alleged in just 10 months.

The online account General SVR, which is said to be run by a former top Russian spy, said Mr Assad become ill late last year after he was poisoned.

It claimed he began to "cough violently and choke" while he requested medical help.

The source added: "There is every reason to believe an assassination attempt was made."

The account claimed that tests showed poison in Mr Assad's system after he was treated in his home.