U.S. Sets Conditions for Syrian Sanctions Relief

The United States has presented Syria with conditions for partial sanctions relief, which includes eliminating foreign influence in its governance. Senior diplomatic engagement occurred to discuss these demands, which also aim to recover missing U.S. journalist Austin Tice. However, relief terms and timelines remain unspecified.

The United States has put forward a set of conditions for Syria to meet in exchange for partial sanctions relief, Reuters has learned from six knowledgeable sources. The list of demands, delivered by U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary for the Levant and Syria, Natasha Franceschi, to Syrian foreign minister Asaad al-Shibani, emphasizes the removal of foreigners from senior governance roles.

This high-level diplomatic meeting, the first since President Donald Trump's inauguration, was held on the sidelines of a Syria donor conference in Brussels. Officials requested anonymity due to the sensitivity of the matter. Conditions include the destruction of remaining chemical weapon stores and cooperation on counterterrorism efforts.

In return for fulfilling these demands, Washington promises some sanctions relief, although precise details of the relief and a timeline for compliance remain undisclosed. The Syrian economy is significantly distressed by nearly 14 years of conflict and stringent international sanctions. Despite some temporary easing, comprehensive relief remains elusive.

(With inputs from agencies.)