EU Maintains Sanctions Relief for Syria Despite Reports of Civilian Massacres

European leaders emphasize the need for stabilization and reconstruction while urging Syria's transitional government to address recent violence and protect minorities.

The EU reaffirms its phased lifting of sanctions on Syria, focusing on energy, transport, and banking sectors to facilitate economic recovery and humanitarian aid.
Recent massacres in Syria's coastal regions resulted in the deaths of over 1,300 civilians, primarily Alawites, raising concerns about the transitional government's control over its security forces.
Germany pledges €300 million in additional aid for Syria, targeting humanitarian relief, education, and support for refugees in neighboring countries through UN agencies and NGOs.
EU officials stress the importance of an inclusive political transition, calling on Syria's leadership to investigate atrocities and ensure minority protections.
The international donor conference in Brussels, with Syrian officials participating for the first time, aims to secure funding for rebuilding efforts and long-term stabilization.

Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung