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.

A week after the fall of the French government, President Emmanuel Macron has appointed François Bayrou as the country’s new prime minister. This appointment comes at a critical juncture as France faces political instability and mounting economic challenges.

Bayrou, 73, is the leader of the Mouvement Démocrate (Democratic Movement – MoDem) party, a centrist political group allied with Macron’s camp. He is also the mayor of Pau, a city in southern France, and is highly regarded by conservative factions. Known for his close ties with Macron, Bayrou is considered a trusted confidant of the president.

The announcement of Bayrou’s appointment followed a brief meeting with Macron at the Élysée Palace, which lasted less than two hours. The day before, the two had discussed the political situation over the phone. Macron’s entourage had earlier hinted that the new prime minister would be named on Friday morning.

Bayrou takes office amidst sharp political divisions in the National Assembly, where no party holds a majority. The assembly is currently split into three opposing blocs: The left-wing New Popular Front (NFP), Macron’s Centrist Coalition, and the right-wing National Rally (RN) and its allies.

The previous prime minister, Michel Barnier, was dismissed after failing to secure a quorum for the 2025 budget. Barnier’s tenure lasted only three months, highlighting the fragility of Macron’s government. The new head of government must now form an administration that can withstand potential votes of no confidence.

Bayrou’s appointment was met with mixed reactions. Conservatives expressed respect for Bayrou’s leadership and a willingness to cooperate. The Greens and Socialists criticized the decision, arguing that it signaled a continuation of existing policies rather than a fresh start.

Reports suggest that some conservatives and sections of the left have promised to tolerate the new government. However, if a broad coalition is not formed, a minority government would remain vulnerable to collapse.

Macron’s quick decision to appoint Bayrou is seen as a calculated risk. The president aims to stabilize the government and avert further political turmoil. Yet, opposition parties have escalated their criticism, with some even calling for Macron’s resignation.

France also faces mounting economic pressures, driven by excessive national debt. Observers suggest that fiscal discipline and strategic policymaking will be critical in navigating the ongoing challenges.

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk has dismissed speculation about European countries preparing to deploy thousands of troops to Ukraine as part of a potential ceasefire agreement to end the ongoing war with Russia.

“I would like to put an end to speculation that troops from any country will be deployed in Ukraine following a potential peace agreement or in the event of a ceasefire,” Tusk stated during a press conference alongside French President Emmanuel Macron.

The statement followed a report by the Polish newspaper Rzeczpospolita on Wednesday, claiming that discussions were underway about sending a 40,000-strong international peacekeeping force to Ukraine. According to the report, the initiative was allegedly being considered by both Poland and France.

A European diplomat and a French official disclosed that Macron’s visit to Warsaw aimed to discuss the peacekeeping proposal with Tusk. However, the French President’s trip was cut short as France prepared to announce a new prime minister.

During the press conference, Macron confirmed that his discussions with Tusk primarily revolved around Ukraine and the “day after” the war. He did not, however, address the peacekeeping rumors directly and refrained from taking questions from the media.

“The [new] Trump administration has demonstrated a willingness to influence the conflict’s trajectory. We must work collaboratively with Ukraine and Europe, ensuring that the interests of both Europe and Ukraine are considered,” Macron remarked.

Macron’s swift visit to Poland occurred less than a week after he hosted U.S. President-elect Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. The leaders met in Paris ahead of the ceremonial reopening of Notre Dame Cathedral. During the meeting, Trump expressed his desire for an “immediate ceasefire” in Ukraine.

While some circles appear to support the idea of a European peacekeeping force, Tusk’s comments suggest that Poland is cautious about the proposal.

“We have discussed the matter, and any decisions on such actions will be made in Warsaw—and only in Warsaw,” Tusk emphasized. “At present, no such plans are under consideration.”