EU insists on clear conditions for lifting sanctions against Syria

The European Union is maintaining its sanctions against Syria as long as the new rulers fail to ensure the protection of minorities and uphold the rights of women in a unified, extremism-free government. Kaja Kallas, the new head of EU foreign policy, made this clear recently. At a meeting of EU foreign ministers in Brussels held on Monday, Syria was discussed, but an extension of financial support beyond what is already provided by UN organizations was not on the agenda. Kallas emphasized that an adjustment of the sanctions regime could only be considered when concrete progress is visible. The existing EU sanctions framework, which includes both Syria and the rebel group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, complicates international cooperation. Nevertheless, the EU remains the largest donor of humanitarian aid to Syria. Kallas made it clear that additional support could not be granted unconditionally. At a conference in Jordan, regional and Western powers discussed the future of Syria after Assad. While initial positive signals were sent by Syria's new interim leaders, Kallas warned that actions are crucial. In particular, the treatment of women and girls is seen as an indicator of societal change. Human rights organizations accuse former Syrian President Assad of serious crimes. For Kallas, it is essential that Assad is held accountable to enable justice and long-term reconstruction.