EU Ministers Visit Post-Assad Syria, Urge Reforms and Justice

German and French foreign ministers meet with Syria's interim leader, emphasizing human rights, democratic transition, and accountability for past atrocities.

• German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock and French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot became the first EU officials to visit Syria since the fall of Bashar al-Assad in December 2024.
• The ministers met with interim leader Ahmed al-Scharaa, head of the Islamist HTS group, who pledged reforms but faced skepticism over his commitment to moderation and democracy.
• Baerbock and Barrot stressed that European support hinges on human rights guarantees, an inclusive political process, and the avoidance of Islamist governance structures.
• The visit included a tour of Saidnaya prison, where they were briefed on atrocities committed under Assad, with Baerbock calling for justice for victims of torture and executions.
• Barrot called for the destruction of Assad-era chemical weapons stockpiles, while both ministers highlighted the importance of swift democratic progress and safe conditions for refugee returns.

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