European Union officials have visited Syria for the first time to meet with interim President Ahmad al-Sharaa. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President António Costa expressed support for Syria's recovery during a visit Friday that marks improving relations with the West after nearly 14 years of civil war. The conflict ended in December 2024 with the ouster of former President Bashar Assad since when Al-Sharaa has restored relations with Western and Arab countries. Despite progress, Syria faces economic struggles and sectarian violence. Recent clashes occurred between government forces and Kurdish fighters in Aleppo.
