Kyiv Expands Middle East Footprint as Zelensky Meets Syria’s Leader

Zelensky holds talks in Damascus with Syria’s leadership, focusing on security ties, food supply, as Kyiv expands Middle East diplomacy.

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Kyiv Expands Middle East Footprint as Zelensky Meets Syria’s Leader

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky held talks with Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa during an official visit to Damascus on Sunday, April 5, highlighting mutual interest in security cooperation and the exchange of military experience.

In a statement on Telegram, Zelensky said the two sides agreed to work together to strengthen security and create new opportunities for development in both countries.

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They also discussed regional dynamics and Russia’s ongoing war against Ukraine.

“We discussed the situation in the region and prospects for positive change. We also touched on Russia’s war against Ukraine – I am grateful for the support. There is great interest in exchanging military and security experience,” Zelensky wrote, thanking Syria for its respect toward the Ukrainian people.

The talks also focused on Ukraine’s role as a reliable food supplier. The leaders explored ways to enhance joint capabilities to support food security across the region.

“We clearly understand the energy and infrastructure challenges Syria is facing. We are ready to work together to strengthen the capabilities of our states and our peoples,” Zelensky added.

Zelensky arrived in Syria on Sunday, April 5, as part of Ukraine’s broader diplomatic push aimed at boosting security cooperation and economic ties.

During the visit, Zelensky also participated in a trilateral meeting in the “Ukraine-Syria-Turkey” format. The talks covered defense cooperation, regional security, developments related to Iran, as well as energy and infrastructure collaboration.

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“We managed to discuss everything – from security and defense to regional developments and energy cooperation. We will continue working on food security as well,” he said.

Zelensky noted that Ukraine was among the first countries to support Syria following the fall of the Assad regime and reaffirmed Kyiv’s commitment to supporting stability and development.

“We will deepen cooperation so that our countries and economies grow stronger,” he said.

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha confirmed on X that Syria will soon reopen its embassy in Kyiv, while Ukraine plans to reopen its diplomatic mission in Damascus.

Following talks with Syrian Foreign Minister Assad Hasan al-Shaibani, Sybiha said security cooperation remains a key priority, emphasizing that “the security of Europe and the Middle East is interlinked.”

The ministers also discussed logistics, trade routes, and maritime cooperation as areas with strong potential for growth.

Sybiha highlighted that bilateral trade has already increased ninefold since the restoration of diplomatic relations, with further expansion expected.

Food security remains a central pillar of cooperation, with Ukraine ready to contribute through initiatives such as Grain from Ukraine to support regional stability.

The sides also explored humanitarian and educational cooperation. Sybiha noted that many Syrian students have studied in Ukraine, calling it a strong foundation for future ties.

“Finally, we agreed to reopen embassies in Kyiv and Damascus in the near future – an important step in strengthening our partnership,” he said.

Speaking during a closed-door briefing with journalists on April 2, Zelensky said Ukrainian expert teams are already working across the Middle East and Gulf, assessing defense systems, infrastructure vulnerabilities, and security needs.

He said the initiative has moved into a second phase, with partner countries outlining priorities while Ukraine proposes ways to strengthen protection beyond air defense, including logistics and critical infrastructure.

Zelensky said the cooperation is long-term, with agreements envisioned for up to ten years and involving significant financial commitments from partner states.

He also confirmed ongoing defense agreements with countries such as Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, and Qatar, including potential deals involving Ukrainian naval drones. Any transfers to third countries, he stressed, would require joint approval under strict controls.

Zelensky noted that Ukraine is also sharing its experience in securing maritime trade routes, particularly the Black Sea shipping corridor, which has remained operational despite Russian attacks.

He said this model could be relevant for regional partners, including in areas like the Strait of Hormuz, following his March tour of the region that included visits to Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, and Jordan.

Julia Struck-Feshchenko

Julia is a Deputy Head of News and correspondent for Kyiv Post who has previously worked as a parliamentary editor, journalist, and news editor. She has specialized in covering the work of the Ukrainian parliament, government, and law enforcement agencies.

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