Overview
- The German foreign minister met interim president Ahmed al‑Scharaa and foreign minister Asaad al‑Schaibani in Damascus during a visit initially kept secret for security reasons.
- Germany announced up to €52.6 million in regional support, with about €39.4 million for Syria channeled to humanitarian groups for food assistance, protection, shelter and health services.
- Wadephul said further support depends on guarantees of dignity, security and inclusion for all citizens, as Berlin seeks a return to normal, friendly relations with Syria’s transitional authorities.
- After touring the devastated suburb of Harasta, he said large‑scale refugee returns are not feasible in the short term, while cooperation on deporting a small number of serious offenders continues with Syrian officials.
- Continuing his trip in Beirut, Wadephul pressed for Hezbollah’s disarmament and planned to visit German UNIFIL forces, noting the mission’s scheduled end in 2026 and the need to bolster the Lebanese army.