Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has announced a significant shift in foreign policy, outlining plans to restore diplomatic relations and economic cooperation with Syria following the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime. This move signifies Ukraine’s intent to play a constructive role in stabilizing the war-torn nation and contribute to broader peace and stability in the Middle East. Central to this initiative is the “Grain from Ukraine” humanitarian program, which will provide much-needed food aid to Syria, demonstrating Ukraine’s commitment to assisting the Syrian people in their transition towards a post-Assad era. Zelenskyy emphasized that increased stability in the Middle East will foster greater peace and trade opportunities for all involved parties.
The “Grain from Ukraine” program, launched in 2022 after Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, has already delivered over 221,000 tonnes of agricultural products to countries in Africa and Asia. The first shipment to Syria, consisting of 500 tonnes of wheat flour, marks the beginning of Ukraine’s humanitarian efforts in the country. This initiative is not solely focused on immediate aid, but also aims to establish long-term cooperation with the new Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS)-led government in Damascus. This collaboration underscores Ukraine’s belief in the importance of supporting Syria’s transition and building a foundation for future economic partnerships.
Zelenskyy expressed hope that the post-Assad Syria will uphold international law, a stark contrast to the previous regime’s actions. He views the restoration of diplomatic ties and economic cooperation as a crucial step towards achieving this goal, believing that Ukraine’s involvement can contribute significantly to rebuilding Syria and promoting a more peaceful and stable future. The Ukrainian president highlighted that restoring these relations would be a positive step, not only for Syria but also for Ukraine’s own pursuit of peace.
Historically, Ukraine has been a major exporter of agricultural goods to the Middle East, though not to Syria under Assad’s rule, as Syria relied heavily on food imports from Russia, its staunch ally. With Assad’s departure and Russia granting him asylum, Ukraine sees an opportunity to re-engage with Syria and become a key trading partner. This shift in trade dynamics represents a significant change in the regional landscape, potentially diminishing Russia’s influence in Syria and increasing Ukraine’s presence.
Zelenskyy also announced plans to double trade with Lebanon this year, further demonstrating Ukraine’s ambition to strengthen its economic ties in the Middle East. This broader regional focus emphasizes Ukraine’s commitment to fostering stability and prosperity in the area. The combined initiatives in Syria and Lebanon highlight Ukraine’s proactive approach to international relations and its desire to become a key player in the region’s future.
Ukraine’s engagement with Syria marks a significant shift in its foreign policy. By providing humanitarian aid, fostering diplomatic relations, and aiming to re-establish trade ties, Ukraine is positioning itself as a crucial partner in Syria’s rebuilding process. This move also signifies Ukraine’s growing international role and its commitment to contributing to global peace and stability, particularly in regions affected by conflict and political upheaval. The success of these initiatives will depend on the cooperation of the new Syrian government, the support of international partners, and the continued implementation of the “Grain from Ukraine” program.
