Zelensky visits Damascus to boost Ukraine-Syria ties, focusing on security, energy, infrastructure and food cooperation, signalling renewed diplomacy and regional development amid ongoing Middle East tensions, reports Asian Lite Newsdesk
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky arrived in Damascus on Sunday, marking his first visit to Syria since the re-establishment of diplomatic ties at the end of last year. The trip follows a joint statement signed in September 2025 on restoring bilateral relations during the UN General Assembly in New York.
Zelensky met President Ahmad Al-Sharaa at the People’s Palace, where the two leaders discussed expanding opportunities for cooperation in security, economic development, and regional stability. In a post on X, Zelensky described the talks as “positive” and emphasised Ukraine’s readiness to help address Syria’s pressing challenges in energy and infrastructure.
The Ukrainian leader also highlighted the potential for collaboration in food security, underlining Ukraine’s position as a reliable supplier of essential food products. “Today in Damascus we continue our active Ukrainian diplomacy aimed at real security and economic cooperation,” Zelensky said after the meeting.
This visit comes amid Zelensky’s wider Middle East diplomatic tour, aimed at promoting Ukrainian expertise in countering drone and missile threats. On Saturday, he met Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan in Turkiye, agreeing on “new steps” in security cooperation and discussing joint projects in gas infrastructure and field development.
The Damascus talks are expected to open avenues for trade, reconstruction support, and energy partnerships. Analysts say Ukraine’s engagement could offer Syria technical assistance and access to agricultural products while providing Kyiv with opportunities to strengthen its political and economic influence in the region.
President Al-Sharaa welcomed the initiative, stressing that cooperation with Ukraine could help boost Syria’s development prospects and stability. Observers note that Ukraine’s proactive diplomacy reflects its efforts to diversify international partnerships and expand economic opportunities beyond Europe, particularly amid ongoing global geopolitical tensions.
