Ukraine is pledging support for the new authorities in Syria who ousted Bashar Assad, a key Russian ally in the Mideast. The Ukrainian foreign minister met with Syria's de facto leader on Monday during a visit to Damascus. Syria is gradually shifting away from Iran and Russia and rekindling ties with Western and Gulf Arab nations that had opposed Assad's rule, as well as Turkey, which backed opposition forces during the civil war. President Volodymyr Zelensky said that Ukraine will send 500 tons of wheat flour to Syria through the U.N. World Food Program to help improve the country's food security and economic crisis. About 90% of Syrians live in poverty, while over half don't know where their next meal will come from, according to the U.N. "The Ukrainian delegation held important talks with the Syrian administration, leader Ahmed Al-Sharaa and ministers. We support the Syrian people in overcoming decades of dictatorial rule and restoring stability, security, and normal life in Syria," Zelensky wrote on X.
Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha said he hopes that "a new Syria would become a country that respects international law." He said Ukraine is ready to share its experience in gathering evidence and conducting investigations to hold war criminals accountable. "The Russian and Assad regimes supported each other because their foundation is violence and torture," he said.
First published: 22:08, 12.30.24