Trump Praises Syria Developments as al-Sharaa Heads to Moscow to Meet Putin

A shifting landscape in Syria is drawing praise from the White House, as President Donald Trump expressed satisfaction with recent developments following a Syrian army offensive against the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). This comes as Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa prepares for a Wednesday meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow.

A Change in US Policy

The US had previously supported the SDF, but according to US Special Envoy for Syria Tom Barrack, the group’s role as the “primary anti-ISIS force on the ground” has “largely expired.” This assessment coincides with the Syrian government joining the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS as its 90th member in late 2025, fundamentally transforming the situation in Syria.

Did You Know? The SDF withdrew from the northeastern Syrian cities of Raqqa and Deir Az Zor on January 18, following the Syrian army’s offensive.

Diplomatic Moves and Reactions

President Trump described a “great conversation” with President al-Sharaa, stating, “It’s working out very well, so we’re very happy about it.” Al-Sharaa, in turn, emphasized Syria’s commitment to its territorial integrity and national sovereignty, as well as the importance of preventing the return of “terrorist groups,” including ISIL (ISIS), in a statement released by the Syrian presidency.

The shift in US policy wasn’t without internal debate. Senator Lindsey Graham initially suggested reimposing sanctions on Syria in response to the offensive, but later credited President Trump with restoring stability.

What’s Next?

With President al-Sharaa’s meeting with President Putin scheduled for Wednesday, a deepening of Syrian-Russian cooperation is likely. Discussions in Moscow are expected to focus on bilateral relations and the overall situation in the Middle East. It is possible that this meeting could solidify a longer-term security arrangement in Syria, potentially further diminishing the role of external actors. A continued US acceptance of Syria’s increased security role could lead to further diplomatic engagement, but the extent of that engagement remains uncertain.

Expert Insight: The US repositioning suggests a pragmatic shift, prioritizing the defeat of ISIS and acknowledging the Syrian government’s control over its territory. This represents a significant trade-off, potentially leaving the long-term political future of the Kurdish population uncertain.

Frequently Asked Questions

What did President Trump say about the situation in Syria?

President Trump stated he was “very happy” with developments in Syria following the Syrian army offensive against the SDF, describing a “great conversation” with President al-Sharaa.

What was the role of the SDF before the recent changes?

The SDF had been previously backed by the White House as the “primary anti-ISIS force on the ground,” but US Special Envoy for Syria Tom Barrack stated that role had “largely expired.”

What is the purpose of Ahmed al-Sharaa’s trip to Moscow?

Ahmed al-Sharaa is traveling to Moscow to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin to discuss the state and prospects of bilateral relations and the current situation in the Middle East.

As Syria navigates a new phase of international relations, what impact do you think this evolving dynamic will have on regional stability?