U.S. Issues Demands to Syria: Sanctions Relief in Exchange for Reforms

The U.S. has given Syria a list of demands, including eliminating chemical weapons and avoiding foreign influence in governance, in exchange for partial sanctions relief. The meeting between U.S. and Syrian officials marked the first high-level contact since Trump's presidency began, amid differing U.S. policy stances on engaging with Syria.

In a significant diplomatic move, the United States has handed Syria a set of conditions that Damascus must meet to receive partial sanctions relief. Key demands include the destruction of Syria's remaining chemical weapons and ensuring that foreigners are not placed in senior government positions.

The delivery of these demands occurred during a high-level in-person meeting between U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary for the Levant and Syria Natasha Franceschi and Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shibani. This marked the first direct contact between Washington and Damascus since Donald Trump assumed the U.S. presidency.

The U.S. outlined these conditions in exchange for easing sanctions that have crippled the Syrian economy. Specific measures for relief were detailed, but Washington has not provided a timeline for compliance. The diplomatic exchange underscores ongoing debate within the U.S. government over how to approach Syria amidst regional and internal strategic considerations.

(With inputs from agencies.)