European Foreign Ministers to Discuss Fate of Russian Base in Tartus with New Syrian Authorities

German Foreign Minister Annalena Berbock and French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot are traveling to Damascus for talks with the new Syrian leadership.

The German and French foreign ministers will travel to Syria to discuss the fate of the Russian military base in Tartus, which remains an important strategic target for Moscow in the region. Ukrinform reports.

Before leaving, Berbock said the goal of the trip was to support an inclusive political transition in Syria that guarantees the rights of all citizens, regardless of ethnicity or religion. She also stressed the importance of avoiding radicalization and revenge in the process of restoring statehood.

“It is time for Russia to leave its military bases in Syria. The Syrian people will not forget the massive bombings and human rights violations. It was Putin who supported Assad for so long, covered up and supported the regime’s crimes,” Berbock said.

The Minister noted that the EU is ready to support Syria in the recovery process through humanitarian aid, reconstruction and ensuring political stability. However, the main condition is real actions by the new leadership aimed at protecting human rights and ensuring transparent elections.

The German and French delegations also plan to discuss with representatives of civil society and the de facto leader of Syria, Ahmed al-Sharaa, potential guarantees of the country’s territorial integrity. In particular, the issue of limiting external influence, in particular from Russia and its military infrastructure, will be raised. As USM reported the day before, Ukraine will set up the Grain from Ukraine programfor cooperation with the Syrian administration.