In a historic move, President Trump meets with Syrian President Ahmed al-Shara following the lifting of longstanding sanctions, marking a significant shift in U.S. relations with Syria.
Trump Shifts U.S. Policy on Syria in Landmark Meeting with President al-Shara
Trump Shifts U.S. Policy on Syria in Landmark Meeting with President al-Shara
President Trump meets with Syrian leader Ahmed al-Shara, signaling a dramatic change in U.S. foreign policy.
President Trump has made headlines with a surprising departure from traditional U.S. foreign policy towards Syria, as he convened with President Ahmed al-Shara in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This meeting comes just as Trump announced the removal of extensive sanctions against Syria, which had been in place since 1979. The skeptical U.S. stance on Syria, which regarded it as a rogue state, appears to be undergoing a radical transformation under Trump’s administration, encouraged by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
Al-Shara, the former leader of a rebel faction that was deemed a terrorist organization by the U.S. prior to his rise to power, impressed Trump with his appearance and history, receiving unusual praise from the president. "Young, attractive guy… Tough guy. Strong past,” said Trump, expressing optimism about al-Shara’s capacity to stabilize a nation ravaged by years of civil war. He acknowledged the complexities of the current situation in Syria, describing it as “a torn-up country” but indicated hope for positive change.
The meeting signifies the first direct discussions between leaders of the U.S. and Syria in 25 years, reflecting a potential pivot in diplomatic relations. Following this event, Trump continued his Middle East tour with plans to engage further with leaders in Qatar and the United Arab Emirates. The extravagant reception Trump received in both Saudi Arabia and Qatar, including ceremonial honors, illustrates the significance of this diplomatic shift in the eyes of U.S. allies in the region.
