Trump meets Syrian leader in Saudi Arabia the day after announcing end of U.S. sanctions
CNBCMAY 1
Trump Meets Syrian Leader, Lifts Sanctions in Historic Shift
Above: U.S. President Donald Trump (C) meets with Syrian President Ahmed al-Shara (L) along with the Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud (R) during the first leg of his three-country Middle East tour in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia on May 14, 2025. Image copyright: Bandar Al-Jaloud/Saudi Royal Court/Handout/Anadolu via Getty Images
The Spin
Pro-Trump narrative
Trump's bold move and the lifting of sanctions represent a strategic opportunity to stabilize Syria and reduce Iranian influence in the region. By engaging with the new Syrian leadership and promoting economic reconstruction, the U.S. can help transform a former adversary into a potential partner for regional stability and peace. The decision demonstrates pragmatic diplomacy that prioritizes future possibilities over past grievances.
Anti-Trump narrative
This policy shift is mind-blowing given that the U.S. is legitimizing a terrorist who spent five years in a U.S. prison with a $10 million bounty on his head previously offered by Washington. Furthermore, the hasty lifting of sanctions without adequate guarantees for the protection of minorities and the prevention of extremist influence could lead to an increase in sectarian violence and endanger the security interests of neighboring countries.