The European Union (EU) has called on Syria’s interim leadership, headed by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), to ensure the country’s future is inclusive, free of extremism, and independent of Russian and Iranian interference, according to senior European diplomats on Monday.
The Associated Press (AP) reported that following the fall of Damascus on 8 December, incidents of reprisals, revenge killings, or sectarian violence have been minimal. Looting and destruction were largely brought under control shortly thereafter.
The interim government, formed by opposition forces led by HTS, is deemed a terrorist organization by both the EU and the United States. Critics note that the new leadership has yet to articulate a comprehensive vision for governing Syria.
The EU plans to dispatch an envoy to Damascus for discussions with the new authorities, aiming to assess the direction of Syria’s political transition. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas emphasized the bloc’s demand for a stable, peaceful, and inclusive government, acknowledging that clarity on Syria’s new trajectory could take weeks or months.
“Syria is facing an optimistic yet uncertain future. We need assurances that progress is moving in the right direction. This is not just about words—we need tangible actions,” Kallas stated during an EU foreign ministers’ meeting.
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot outlined specific conditions for lifting sanctions or providing EU development aid. These include that a political transition ensuring representation for all Syrian minority groups, adherence to human rights and women’s rights, and a firm rejection of terrorism and extremism.
Similarly, Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares underscored the importance of respecting EU “red lines.” These include safeguarding Syria’s territorial integrity and eliminating foreign interference.
“If these issues are adequately addressed, we can open discussions about lifting sanctions,” Albares said.
Dutch Foreign Minister Caspar Veldkamp reinforced the EU’s demand for the removal of Russian military bases from Syria. “We want the Russians out,” he declared.
In a pointed statement, Kallas warned Syria’s new leaders against relying on Russia and Iran. “Russia and Iran are not your friends. They abandoned the Assad regime and are now weakened, preoccupied with their own challenges,” she asserted.
The EU remains cautious but hopeful as it navigates relations with Syria’s interim government, advocating for a peaceful political future rooted in democracy, human rights, and freedom from external manipulation.
