EU lifts most Syria sanctions but maintains pressure on Asad regime

The European Council has enacted legal measures to lift nearly all economic sanctions on Syria, formalizing the political decision announced on May 20, 2025.

This move excludes sanctions based on security concerns and aims to assist in Syria’s recovery and promote an inclusive political transition. As part of this shift, the EU has removed 24 entities from its sanctions list, including the Central Bank of Syria and companies in vital sectors like oil, telecommunications, and textiles. Some media outlets were also delisted.

EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas described the decision as a necessary step in supporting Syrians after 14 years of conflict, emphasizing the EU’s ongoing role as a partner in Syria’s transition toward peace and unity.

However, the EU has extended sanctions against individuals and groups linked to the Assad regime until June 1, 2026. In response to violent events in Syria’s coastal region in March 2025, the EU also imposed new sanctions targeting two individuals and three entities for severe human rights abuses under its Global Human Rights Sanctions Regime.

The EU pledged to keep monitoring developments in Syria and stands ready to introduce further measures if needed.

Copied