EU Pledges Continued Support for Syria Amidst Rising Violence
The EU maintains support for Syria’s new leadership despite recent sectarian violence. Germany pledged €300 million for essential services as the bloc considers lifting sanctions. The political situation remains fragile following a revolution that ousted Bashar Assad, prompting concerns over escalating violence and humanitarian challenges.
On March 17, 2025, the European Union (EU) reiterated its commitment to support Syria’s new leadership through increased financial aid and sanctions relief, despite escalating sectarian violence that threatens national stability. Germany took a leading role by pledging €300 million to support essential services such as food and healthcare for the Syrian populace. EU’s chief diplomat Kaja Kallas confirmed that sanctions against Syria would continue to be lifted as part of the bloc’s broader strategy.
The political landscape in Syria has changed significantly following a swift revolution last year, which saw rebels, led by former al-Qaeda commander Ahmed al-Sharaa, oust Bashar Assad’s long-standing regime. This transition has led to a delicate governance structure amidst ongoing ethnic and religious tensions. Recent attacks by gunmen from the Alawite minority, linked to Assad, have resulted in violent retaliations against security forces associated with al-Sharaa’s government, leading to numerous casualties and displacement of thousands of Alawites, with many fleeing to neighboring Lebanon.
Kallas emphasized the urgent need for the EU to enhance its support for Syria, expressing concern over the recent outbreak of violence. She stated, “The violence outbreak is really worrying. It shows that hope in Syria is really hanging by a thread. This shows that we need to do more to really show that Syria is going in the right direction.”
Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shibani attended the donor conference in Brussels, which included prominent EU officials like European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and various foreign ministers. A high-ranking EU official mentioned aspirations for additional funding to help Syria emerge from 14 years of conflict, particularly amid fears that a suspension of U.S. international aid could exacerbate the crisis.
The EU, particularly through Germany’s hefty pledge, remains steadfast in its commitment to financially support Syria amid ongoing violence and the complex political landscape. With persistent sectarian violence threatening stability, the bloc is cautiously optimistic about aiding a transition toward peace, while highlighting the critical nature of international support following years of civil upheaval.
Original Source: www.politico.eu
