Germany says sanctions against Syrian war crimes suspects must stay but people need relief
Associated PressJAN 8
EU Weighs Syria Sanctions Relief After Assad's Fall
Above: EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas attends a Middle East-European summit on Syria in Riyadh on January 12, 2025. Image copyright: Fayez Nureldine/Contributor/AFP via Getty Images
The Spin
Narrative A
The Syrian people have suffered enough. Europe must lift sanctions as soon as possible as sanctions relief is crucial for Syria's recovery and reconstruction efforts. Continuing restrictions will severely hinder the Syrian people's aspirations for development. Western nations must help provide essential goods and services, including energy and sanitation.
Narrative B
Sanctions must be lifted gradually and conditionally, requiring the new Syrian administration to demonstrate its commitment to an inclusive political transition that protects minorities and prevents radicalization before any significant relief can be granted.