U.S. Sets Conditions for Syrian Sanctions Relief Amid High-Level Diplomacy

In a pivotal diplomatic move, the U.S. has presented Syria with a list of conditions for partial sanctions relief. Chief demands include eliminating foreign influence in governance and addressing chemical weapon stores, signaling the Trump administration's evolving policy on Syria amid mixed internal views.

In a significant development, the United States has issued Syria a set of conditions in exchange for partial sanctions relief, according to insider sources. Chief among the demands is ensuring foreign nationals do not occupy senior roles in Syria's government.

The conditions were communicated by U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary for the Levant and Syria Natasha Franceschi during a meeting with Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shibani at a Syria donor conference in Brussels. This meeting marks the first high-level direct interaction between the U.S. and Damascus since President Trump's tenure began.

Additional demands include dismantling chemical weapons and cooperation on counter-terrorism. Washington also requests assistance in locating missing U.S. journalist Austin Tice. If Syria meets these conditions, the U.S. promises some form of sanctions relief, yet details remain unspecified. The Syrian economic and political landscape continues to grapple with the challenges posed by years of conflicts and sanctions from international entities.

(With inputs from agencies.)