Particle.news
Download on the App Store
3 ARTICLES
·
2w ago

Trump Meets Syria’s Interim President Sharaa, Lifts Sanctions in Diplomatic Shift

The meeting in Riyadh marks the first U.S.-Syrian leadership encounter in 25 years as Sharaa seeks to rebuild Syria after Assad’s fall.

Image
Syria’s interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa attends an interview with Reuters at the presidential palace, in Damascus, Syria March 10, 2025. REUTERS/Khalil Ashawi/File Photo

Overview

  • U.S. President Donald Trump met Syrian interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa in Riyadh on May 14, 2025, signaling a major policy shift toward Syria.
  • Trump announced the lifting of all U.S. sanctions on Syria, aiming to normalize relations and support Syria's post-Assad reconstruction efforts.
  • Sharaa, formerly known as Abu Mohammad al-Golani, rose to power after leading Islamist forces to overthrow Bashar al-Assad in December 2024.
  • The meeting reflects growing Gulf Arab support for Sharaa’s government, with regional leaders urging the U.S. to counter Iranian influence in Syria.
  • Despite diplomatic progress, Sharaa faces challenges including armed group autonomy, sectarian violence, economic recovery, and Israeli security warnings.