The EU has made the decision to lift economic sanctions targeting Syria in an effort to aid the war-torn country’s recovery following the fall of the Bashar al-Assad regime. EU’s top diplomat, Kaja Kallas, emphasized the desire to support the Syrian people in rebuilding their nation, aiming for a new, inclusive, and peaceful Syria.
This decision comes shortly after the United States announced its plan to lift all sanctions on Syria after President Donald Trump met with the newly elected Syrian president, Ahmed al-Sharaa. Trump expressed that al-Sharaa has an immense opportunity ahead.
The discussions to lift the sanctions were intense, with concerns over whether the Syrian government is directing its efforts towards the right path. Kallas highlighted that there is not much choice but to support stabilization efforts, warning that failing to do so could lead Syria into a similar economic disaster as witnessed in Afghanistan after the Taliban took control.
The EU has dismissed claims that its decision was a response to US policy. Earlier in February, weeks after Sharaa’s forces had ousted the Assad regime, the EU made moves to roll back sanctions on Syria’s energy and transport industries and relaxed restrictions on several banks and an airline company to facilitate better financial stability.
However, the EU has urged Syria’s government to ensure a peaceful and inclusive transition. Germany’s foreign minister, Johann Wadephul, stated that while the EU wishes to start anew with Syria, it also expects all-inclusive policies within the country to encompass all population and religious groups.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/may/20/eu-to-lift-economic-sanctions-on-syria
