US President Donald Trump stated during a meeting with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Ankara that his administration would lift sanctions on Syria, emphasizing the country’s positive relationship with Syria’s new leadership. The announcement was made ahead of the NATO Summit where discussions on regional security, Iran, and bilateral ties took place.
Trump, in response to a question during the joint appearance with Erdogan, confirmed the decision to remove sanctions, highlighting the collaborative efforts with key officials like Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent. He stressed the importance of fostering relationships with allies and refraining from sanctioning friends.
Acknowledging Erdogan’s role in engaging with Syria’s new leadership, Trump commended the progress made under the new government. This move signifies a shift in the US administration’s stance towards Syria, indicating a desire to normalize relations after years of economic restrictions.
Trump also praised Turkey for its contributions to efforts concerning Iran and its restrained involvement in recent conflicts despite its military capabilities. The United States aims to recalibrate its Middle East strategy by empowering regional partners to take on more significant diplomatic responsibilities.
