**Ukrainian Foreign Minister Visits Syria**
The Ukrainian Foreign Minister, Andrii Sybiha, visited Damascus on December 30. This is the first time an official Ukrainian delegation has visited Syria in many years.
Sybiha met with Syrian leaders, including Prime Minister Mohammad Al-Bashir and Foreign Minister Asaad Hasan Al-Sheybani. He also delivered a message from President Volodymyr Zelensky, promising Ukraine’s support for Syria’s stability and recovery.
**Food Aid to Syria**
Earlier this month, Ukraine sent 500 tons of wheat flour to Syria as part of its “Grain from Ukraine” initiative. This will provide food for over 33,000 Syrian families – or 167,000 Syrians – for a month. Sybiha said that this is just the first batch and that Ukraine is prepared to deliver more.
**Ukraine’s Support for International Law**
Sybiha emphasized that Ukraine is committed to restoring diplomatic ties with Syria, contingent on Syria respecting international law, including Ukraine’s territorial integrity. He also announced that Ukraine plans to resume educational exchanges with Syria.
**Criticism of Russia’s Actions in Syria**
The Ukrainian Foreign Minister highlighted the atrocities committed by the Russian-backed regime in Syria. He mentioned the Sednaya prison and said that Ukraine is ready to share its experience in collecting evidence, conducting investigations, and holding war criminals accountable for their actions.
Sybiha also stated that eliminating Russia’s presence in Syria will contribute to the stability of the country itself, as well as the entire Middle East and Africa.