In a significant diplomatic move, Secretary of State Marco Rubio met with Syria's foreign minister, signaling a thaw in relations as the Trump administration commits to easing sanctions on Syria.
Rubio Holds Talks with Syrian Foreign Minister Amidst Sanctions Shift
Rubio Holds Talks with Syrian Foreign Minister Amidst Sanctions Shift
U.S. Secretary of State meets top Syrian diplomat as Trump announces lifting sanctions.
On May 15, 2025, in Antalya, Turkey, Secretary of State Marco Rubio engaged in talks with Asaad Hassan al-Shaibani, Syria's foreign minister, marking a notable shift in U.S. policy towards Syria. This meeting followed President Trump's unexpected announcement earlier this week regarding the lifting of sanctions on the war-torn nation amid efforts to revitalize its economy after years of civil conflict and authoritarian rule.
During the discussions, the two officials explored the framework for resuming trade and aid, a move that could offer vital economic support to the new Syrian leadership under President Ahmed al-Shara, who emerged after his coalition ousted the long-time dictator Bashar al-Assad in late 2022. Reports indicate that while the communiqué touched upon timelines and processes, specific details remain ambiguous.
President Trump’s decision to lift sanctions has been lauded by some as empowering al-Shara's government and enabling its potential reintegration into the international community. However, experts caution that while the president can modify some sanctions, congressional approval will undoubtedly be required for others, which could prolong the reinstatement of peace and rebuild efforts in Syria.
In coordination with the administration’s announcement, the Treasury Department confirmed via social media that procedures to dismantle some of the restrictions were underway following the president's directions. As the situation unfolds, the international community watches closely to see how the United States will further engage with Syria in the coming days and weeks.
During the discussions, the two officials explored the framework for resuming trade and aid, a move that could offer vital economic support to the new Syrian leadership under President Ahmed al-Shara, who emerged after his coalition ousted the long-time dictator Bashar al-Assad in late 2022. Reports indicate that while the communiqué touched upon timelines and processes, specific details remain ambiguous.
President Trump’s decision to lift sanctions has been lauded by some as empowering al-Shara's government and enabling its potential reintegration into the international community. However, experts caution that while the president can modify some sanctions, congressional approval will undoubtedly be required for others, which could prolong the reinstatement of peace and rebuild efforts in Syria.
In coordination with the administration’s announcement, the Treasury Department confirmed via social media that procedures to dismantle some of the restrictions were underway following the president's directions. As the situation unfolds, the international community watches closely to see how the United States will further engage with Syria in the coming days and weeks.
