EU urges respect for Syrian sovereignty amid post-Assad instability

The European Union has called for full respect of Syria's sovereignty and territorial integrity, warning that peace is impossible without inclusive national dialogue. This comes amid a surge in violence and stalled agreements with Kurdish-led forces in northern Syria.
The European Union has issued a firm call for the protection of Syria's sovereignty and territorial unity, underscoring its concerns over escalating violence and the fragile political landscape in the country. During a press briefing in Brussels, EU Commission spokesperson Anouar El Anouni stated that the bloc is closely monitoring developments and emphasized that sustainable peace requires a genuine internal political process.
A Foundation for Peace: Dialogue and Integrity
El Anouni articulated the EU's core position, stating, "There cannot be any peace or stability in Syria without a full process of national dialogue, reconciliation and traditional justice." He explicitly condemned any form of foreign military intervention that seeks to undermine Syria's stability, reinforcing the message that the country's future must be determined by Syrians themselves within a unified state. This principle of non-interference and respect for sovereignty forms the cornerstone of the EU's current policy toward the post-Assad Syrian government.
Context of Renewed Violence and Broken Pacts
The EU's statement arrives against a backdrop of renewed conflict, particularly in the northern city of Aleppo. Recent shelling attributed to the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) has resulted in significant civilian casualties and mass displacement. This violence highlights the failure of integration agreements signed in early 2025 between Damascus and the SDF, which were intended to pave the way for the group's fighters to withdraw east of the Euphrates River. Syrian authorities now report that the SDF has not complied with these terms, creating a persistent flashpoint.
Navigating a Complex Post-Assad Reality
Since the ouster of President Bashar al-Assad in December 2024, the new Syrian government has faced the monumental task of asserting authority over a fractured nation. The EU's declaration serves as both a warning against external meddling and an implicit acknowledgment of the complex challenges Damascus faces in reintegrating regions held by semi-autonomous groups. By advocating for sovereignty and dialogue, the EU positions itself as a proponent of a political solution, while the situation on the ground tests the viability of that very approach.
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