Ukraine has pledged support for the new Syrian government following the ousting of President Bashar al-Assad, marking a shift in alliances for Syria as it distances itself from Russia and Iran while rekindling ties with Western powers, Gulf Arab states, and Turkey. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha met with Syria’s de facto leader, Ahmad al-Sharaa, and pledged to send 500 tons of wheat flour to Syria through the United Nations World Food Program to address food security and the economic crisis in the country. This delivery is part of Ukraine’s broader efforts to stabilize the region and assist in Syria’s rebuilding after decades of authoritarian rule.
In the wake of Assad’s fall, Syria’s transitional government is facing power struggles and economic challenges. Security forces in Syria have conducted raids to detain alleged loyalists of the former regime, highlighting ongoing tensions as Islamist factions consolidate power. Additionally, Syria’s first female Central Bank governor, Maysaa Sabreen, has been appointed to address the country’s economic turmoil, including a falling currency and widespread poverty due to war and sanctions. Turkey has also offered to export electricity to Syria and Lebanon to help address severe power shortages, showing its readiness to support Syria’s new leadership after years of backing opposition forces during the civil war.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky emphasized Kyiv’s commitment to helping Syria rebuild after Assad’s regime collapsed. Ukraine is ready to share its experience in gathering evidence and conducting investigations to hold war criminals accountable. Sybiha expressed hope that a new Syria would become a country that respects international law and criticized the Russian and Assad regimes for supporting each other with violence and torture. Calls have grown among Syrians to hold those responsible for atrocities and killings during Assad’s regime accountable, but it remains unclear how and when this will happen in the midst of ongoing clashes between Assad supporters and the new government led by Islamist rebels.
Overall, Ukraine’s support for the new Syrian government signifies a shift in alliances and a commitment to stabilizing the region. Syria’s transitional government is facing challenges as it asserts control and tackles economic issues following Assad’s fall. As Ukraine pledges support and assistance in Syria’s rebuilding process, tensions and power struggles continue to play out within the country. It remains to be seen how accountability for past atrocities will be addressed and how Syria will navigate its new alliances and partnerships in the future.
