Ukraine’s foreign minister, Andriy Sybiga, has urged Syria’s new leader, Ahmed al-Sharaa, to expel Russian forces from the country during an unannounced visit to Damascus. This call comes amidst ongoing tensions between Ukraine and Russia, which has been involved in both Syria’s civil war and a full-scale invasion of Ukraine since 2022.
Sybiga criticized the historical alliance between the former Syrian president Bashar al-Assad and Moscow, describing it as founded on “violence and torture.” He emphasised that removing Russia’s military presence from Syria would promote regional stability across the Middle East and Africa. The statement highlighted the strategic importance of Russia’s military bases in Tartus and Hmeimim, its only military footholds outside the former Soviet Union.
The new Syrian leadership, led by Sharaa, emerged after an Islamist rebel coalition toppled Assad in late November. Despite this shift, Sharaa has maintained a measured stance, acknowledging Syria’s dependence on Russian military equipment and infrastructure. In an interview with Al-Arabiya TV, Sharaa stated, “We do not want Russia to leave Syria in the way that some wish,” signalling a complex balancing act for Syria’s new government.
Ukraine’s overture to Syria extends beyond military concerns. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky recently announced the delivery of 500 tonnes of wheat flour as food aid to Syria, underscoring Ukraine’s intent to rebuild diplomatic ties severed during Assad’s regime. The gesture also highlights Ukraine’s resilience as a top wheat producer despite ongoing conflict.
