Ukraine and Syria Reestablish Diplomatic Ties, Zelenskyy and Al-Sharaa Hold Major Meeting

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Ukraine and Syria signed a communique on the restoration of diplomatic relations

Ukraine and Syria have restored diplomatic relations, which were severed during the Assad regime. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy made the announcement during his meeting with Syrian interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York.

Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani and his delegation were also present at the meeting. This marks the beginning of a new journey between the two countries, one focused on mutual respect and cooperation.

Breakdown of Previous Relations

Ukraine severed relations with Syria in 2022 after Syria's former ruler, Bashar al-Assad, recognized the independence of the Russian-backed breakaway republics of Donetsk and Luhansk. Syria subsequently severed ties with Ukraine.

Now, Zelenskyy confirmed that Ukraine and Syria have signed a communique, symbolizing the restoration of diplomatic relations. Zelenskyy said, "This is an important step, and we are ready to support the Syrian people on their path to stability."

What happened at the meeting?

Zelenskyy said that he held detailed talks with President Ahmed al-Sharaa, in which the two countries discussed new areas of cooperation, common security threats, and the need to counter them. He said that the two countries will now build their relations on a foundation of trust and respect.

Syria Returns to UNGA

Al-Shara arrived in New York on Sunday with a delegation of ministers, where he participated in the UNGA. This was Syria's first presidential-level participation in 60 years. Syria boycotted the UN summit after the 1967 Arab-Israeli War, when Israel occupied the Golan Heights. The last Syrian president to attend the UNGA at that time was Nureddin al-Atassi (1966-1970).

End of the Assad Regime

In January 2025, Ahmed al-Sharaa assumed power when he, along with opposition forces, ousted the Assad regime. This ended the Assad family's rule of more than 50 years.

In his first UNGA speech, al-Sharaa demanded the lifting of international sanctions, which are heavily impacting Syria's war-torn economy. He also called for reforms, including the creation of new institutions, plans for elections, and attracting foreign investment.