In Damascus, the U.N.’s Syria envoy emphasized the importance of an inclusive Syrian transition based on a nine-year-old Security Council resolution during a meeting with Syria’s new administration commander, Ahmed al-Sharaa, the envoy’s office announced on Monday. The ruling General Command of Syria acknowledged the necessity of reviewing Security Council Resolution 2254 during a discussion with the U.N.’s Geir Pedersen, stating that it should be updated to align with the current reality. This meeting signified a significant international engagement for Sharaa, the leader of the Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), which recently assumed power in Damascus after overthrowing Bashar al-Assad. Photos from the meeting depicted Sharaa, formerly associated with al-Qaeda, in a blazer and open shirt meeting with Pedersen, who has served as the U.N. Syria envoy since 2018.
HTS is recognized as a terrorist organization by Western and regional powers, including Turkey, which was a key supporter of the Syrian opposition. The new administration in Damascus has not disclosed detailed plans for Syria’s future, following decades of Assad family rule and a prolonged civil war. The newly appointed Prime Minister Mohammed al-Bashir, a former leader of an HTS-affiliated government in Idlib province, has indicated he will remain in office until March. Pedersen updated Sharaa on the outcomes of an international meeting held in Jordan, emphasizing the importance of a credible and inclusive Syrian-led political transition in line with Security Council Resolution 2254 (2015).
Resolution 2254 has become a focal point of diplomatic efforts concerning Syria since Assad’s ousting and subsequent departure to Russia. Enacted in 2015 during the height of the conflict, the resolution supports a Syrian-led political process facilitated by the United Nations, aiming to establish inclusive governance within six months, draft a new constitution, and hold free and fair elections within 18 months. Sharaa highlighted the need for swift and effective cooperation to address Syrian issues, focusing on territorial unity, reconstruction, and economic development. He stressed the importance of a cautious and precise transition process, emphasizing the safe return of refugees and the need for political and economic support.
European Union’s foreign policy chief, Kaja Kallas, issued a statement on Monday regarding the supervision of specialized teams to ensure optimal outcomes. She emphasized the importance of achieving goals in the best possible way through effective management and guidance.
In response to the evolving situation in Syria, Kallas announced that she had directed the EU’s top diplomat for Syria to travel to Damascus and establish contact with the newly formed government. This proactive approach underscored the EU’s commitment to engaging with key stakeholders in the region and seeking diplomatic solutions to complex challenges.
Meanwhile, the Kremlin provided insights on Russia’s military presence in Syria, indicating that no final decisions had been made regarding the future of Russian military bases in the country. The Russian government affirmed ongoing communication with relevant authorities in Syria to assess the evolving political landscape and make informed decisions.
Against the backdrop of shifting dynamics in Syria, reports emerged over the weekend suggesting changes in Russia’s military deployments. Sources within the Syrian government revealed that Russia was withdrawing its troops from the front lines in northern Syria and certain strategic positions in the Alawite Mountains. However, the reports clarified that Russia was maintaining its presence at two main military bases despite the regime change in Syria.
The developments in Syria and the responses from the EU and Russia highlighted the intricate diplomatic and military considerations at play in the region. The engagement of key international actors underscored the need for strategic coordination and communication to navigate the complex geopolitical landscape in Syria.
Additional reporting from Clauda Tanios in Dubai, Hatem Maher, and Ahmed Tolba in Cairo provided further insights into the regional perspectives on the evolving situation. The collaborative efforts of journalists and analysts shed light on the multifaceted dynamics shaping the future trajectory of Syria and its implications for regional stability.
As the international community closely monitored developments in Syria, the role of diplomatic engagement and strategic decision-making came to the forefront. The statements and actions of key stakeholders reflected a mix of caution, proactive outreach, and strategic positioning in response to the evolving situation on the ground.
In conclusion, the developments in Syria and the responses from the EU, Russia, and other regional actors underscored the complex nature of the conflict and the delicate balance of interests at play. The ongoing diplomatic efforts and military considerations highlighted the importance of sustained engagement and coordinated action to address the challenges and opportunities in Syria’s political landscape.
