Trump meets Syrian president al-Sharaa in Riyadh, sanctions set to be lifted

US President Donald Trump met with Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on May 14.

Trump, currently on a regional tour, announced on May 13 that he would lift all sanctions imposed on Syria, a decision made at the request of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Caliber.Az reports per Arab media.

This move provides a substantial boost to President al-Sharaa, who is seeking to stabilise a nation devastated by years of conflict.

Syria's Foreign Minister, Asaad Hassan Al-Shaibani, described the announcement as a “pivotal turning point,” signalling a new chapter for the country. Speaking to state news agency SANA, al-Shaibani welcomed Trump’s decision, emphasising its importance for Syria’s future.

He said the lifting of sanctions marks a move towards "stability, self-sufficiency, and genuine reconstruction" following years of devastating war.

Sources from the Syrian presidency confirmed that al-Sharaa would travel to Riyadh to meet with Trump on May 14, in what is seen as a crucial diplomatic engagement. A White House official also confirmed the meeting, noting that Trump had agreed to a brief greeting with al-Sharaa during his visit to Saudi Arabia.

The US had imposed stringent sanctions on Syria under the rule of Bashar al-Assad, maintaining them even after Assad was ousted from power in December following over 13 years of conflict.

By Aghakazim Guliyev