On December 16, 2024, European Union nations convened to discuss the conditions for lifting sanctions on Syria and initiating aid following a recent leadership change.

This political shift occurred after the fall of Damascus on December 8, 2024, when President Bashar Assad fled to Moscow, resulting in a surprisingly stable transition with minimal violence reported.

The new interim government, formed by the Islamic militant group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), is expected to govern until March 2025 but has yet to outline a clear governance plan.

EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas emphasized the need for a stable and inclusive government in Syria, acknowledging that clarity on the new leadership's direction may take weeks or months.

French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot stated that sanctions would only be lifted if specific conditions, such as political representation for all groups and respect for human rights, are met.

Spanish Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares highlighted the necessity of respecting the EU's 'red lines' regarding Syria's territorial integrity and foreign interference before any support is considered.

Kallas warned the new leaders against relying on Russia and Iran, noting their diminished influence and current preoccupation with other matters.

Syria continues to grapple with the aftermath of decades of Assad family rule, facing severe economic challenges, widespread poverty, and rampant corruption, which have led to millions of refugees.

Hundreds of thousands of Syrian refugees currently reside in Europe, and while some EU countries have paused asylum applications, assistance is only available for those willing to return to Syria.

Arab foreign ministers are advocating for U.N.-supervised elections based on a new constitution, while the EU plans to send an envoy to Damascus to engage with the interim leadership.

Since 2011, the EU has imposed sanctions on over 300 individuals and 86 entities linked to the Assad regime in response to human rights violations during the civil war.