Top Ukraine Official Pledges Support for New Syrian Government

A top Ukraine official pledged support for the new Syrian government on Monday following the ousting of President Bashar al-Assad, a key ally of Russia in the Middle East. Why It Matters The move marks a shift in Syria’s alliances, as the nation distances itself from Russia and Iran while rekindling ties with Western powers, Gulf Arab states and Turkey, which supported opposition forces during Syria’s civil war. What To Know Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha met with Syria’s de facto leader, Ahmad al-Sharaa, during a high-profile visit to Damascus on Monday. The visit follows Ukraine’s pledge to send 500 tons of wheat flour to Syria through the United Nations World Food Program in an effort to address and help improve the country’s food security and economic crisis. According to the United Nations, over 90 percent of Syrians live in poverty, while over half are uncertain of their next meal. The delivery is part of Ukraine’s broader effort to stabilize the region as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky emphasized Kyiv’s commitment to helping Syria rebuild after decades of authoritarian rule. According to Sybiha, Ukraine is ready to share its experience in gathering evidence and conducting investigations to hold war criminals accountable. The meeting comes weeks after Syrian rebels streamed into their country’s capital of Damascus as the 24-year-old regime of Assad collapsed. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha, left, and his Syrian counterpart Asaad Hassan al-Shibani, right, pose for a picture next to the Ukrainian flag at the Ukrainian consulate in Damascus, Syria, on December 30, 2024. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha, left, and his Syrian counterpart Asaad Hassan al-Shibani, right, pose for a picture next to the Ukrainian flag at the Ukrainian consulate in Damascus, Syria, on December 30, 2024. Omar Sanadiki/AP Syria’s Transition Sparks Power Struggles and Economic Challenges In the wake of Assad’s fall, Syria’s interim government is taking aggressive steps to assert control. On Monday, security forces conducted raids in Adra, a suburb of Damascus, detaining alleged loyalists of the former regime. The operation underscores ongoing tensions as Islamist factions consolidate power. Meanwhile, Syria’s first female Central Bank governor, Maysaa Sabreen, has been appointed to tackle the country’s economic turmoil. Sabreen faces monumental challenges, including a currency in freefall and widespread poverty stemming from war and sanctions. Turkey has also entered the fray, offering to export electricity to Syria and Lebanon to address severe power shortages. Ankara’s involvement signals its readiness to support Syria’s new leadership after years of backing opposition forces during the civil war. What People Are Saying Zelensky wrote on X (formerly Twitter): “The Ukrainian delegation held important talks with the Syrian administration, leader Ahmed Al-Sharaa and ministers. We support the Syrian people in overcoming decades of dictatorial rule and restoring stability, security, and normal life in Syria.” Sybiha said he hopes “that a new Syria would become a country that respects international law. The Russian and Assad regimes supported each other because their foundation is violence and torture.” What Happens Next After clashes erupted last week in several cities across Syria between Assad supporters and the new government, which is led by Islamist rebels, calls have grown among Syrians to hold those responsible for atrocities and killings during Assad’s regime accountable. However, it remains unclear how they will be held accountable and when. This article includes reporting from The Associated Press.