Ukraine's Foreign Minister Meets New Syrian Leader, Pledges 500 Tons of Flour Aid

Dec 30, 2024, 10:15 AM

Ukraine's Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha met with Syria's de facto leader Ahmed al-Sharaa in Damascus, marking a significant step in rebuilding diplomatic ties between the two countries following the ouster of Bashar Assad. Sybiha conveyed a message of support from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, emphasizing Ukraine's readiness to assist Syria in restoring stability after years of Russian interference. During the meeting, Sybiha pledged humanitarian aid, announcing that over 20 trucks carrying 500 tons of Ukrainian wheat flour would arrive in Syria tomorrow for free distribution to Syrian families. Both officials expressed a desire to establish strategic partnerships across political, economic, and social sectors. The Ukrainian delegation offered assistance in gathering evidence and investigating crimes committed by the former Syrian regime and Russia. Syria's newly appointed Foreign Minister, Asaad al-Shibani, welcomed the cooperation, stating that Syria aims to strengthen partnerships with Ukraine. This visit, which included Ukraine's Minister of Agrarian Policy and Food, marks the first high-level Ukrainian delegation to Syria in years and signals a shift in Syria's foreign relations amid waning Russian influence.