The European Union has announced nearly €2.5 billion in additional support for Syria over the next two years, emphasizing that future investments will depend on a “credible” and “inclusive” transition.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen made the announcement on Monday during an annual donor conference, where Syria’s de facto government was represented for the first time by Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shibani. Germany also committed an additional €300 million in aid.
Von der Leyen reaffirmed the EU’s willingness to assist in Syria’s reconstruction, provided that the authorities in Damascus continue their transition toward an inclusive government. She highlighted last week’s signing of a transitional constitution and a recent agreement with the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), which control the resource-rich northeast, as key milestones.
“In the past, we have always worked for Syria and for Syrians. But today, we can finally work with Syria,” she stated.
Escalating Violence Raises Concerns
Despite the EU’s commitment, renewed violence in Syria’s northwestern coastal regions has raised concerns about the stability of the post-al-Assad transition. Reports indicate that gunmen linked to the Sunni Islamist-led government of former al-Qaeda commander Ahmed al-Sharaa carried out mass executions in response to attacks by remnants of Bashar al-Assad’s forces. War monitoring groups estimate that as many as 1,300 people were killed in extrajudicial executions.
The United Nations condemned the killings, stating that “entire families,” including women and children, were among the victims in predominantly Alawite areas.
EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas acknowledged the situation as “worrying,” warning that “hope in Syria is really hanging by a thread.”
EU Continues Easing Sanctions Despite Unrest
In an effort to support Syria’s economic recovery, the EU has already lifted sanctions on key industries, including energy, transport, and finance.
Despite the latest violence, Kallas suggested that the EU remains committed to its roadmap for assisting Syria. However, she emphasized that continued support depends on accountability and inclusiveness in governance.
“This is our position right now: that we are helping Syria to also move further,” she said. “Of course, we want to see that the current leadership is holding accountable those who were responsible for the violence, and we also want to see the inclusiveness of government build-up.”
As Syria navigates its fragile transition, the EU’s financial and political backing remains conditional on the country’s ability to foster stability and inclusivity.
