Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is the first European leader to visit the Syrian capital, Damascus, and the second head of state to do so, following the earlier visit by Qatar’s ruler, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. Turkey’s Foreign Minister, Hakan Fidan, also visited, and the three held talks on a range of issues, including maritime security and food security.
Syria was an importer of trafficked Ukrainian grain by Russia and talks involving Turkey, which coordinates with Ukraine over maritime security, may indicate that new and regular alternatives are being made available.
Ukraine played an important role in supporting Syrian rebel forces in their fight against Russian and Iranian forces before their advance to Damascus. The Syrian and Ukrainian leaders have a positive relationship and also face common challenges. Their security interests intersect with Iran, which is considered as a rival to both countries. Syria is retaining nominal relations with Russia whilst also keeping its bases but trade with Russia is no longer permitted. Syria is also requesting Russia to hand over Bashar al-Assad who escaped to Moscow following the Syrian Revolution.
Newsroom
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