Zelenskyy announced Ukraine's new role in the Middle East
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy commented on the results of his visit to Syria, calling it a symbol of change in the region’s geopolitical balance.
He spoke about this during a closed-door meeting with journalists.
According to the head of state, following the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime, Ukraine will have new opportunities to strengthen its presence in the Middle East.
Bashar al-Assad previously led a regime that, according to Kyiv’s assessment, relied heavily on the support of Russia and Iran.
Zelenskyy emphasized that Ukraine’s presence in the region is strategically important and demonstrates a shift in the balance of power.
“Undoubtedly, Ukraine is showing that Russia is not the only player in the Middle East. Syria was effectively fighting for itself against Iran and against the ‘Russians.’ Syria has great respect for Ukraine,” the president stated.
The president noted that following political changes in Syria, Ukraine has been able to build new relations with local authorities and society.
According to him, contacts are maintained at various levels—from diplomatic agencies to direct dialogue between state leaders.
Zelenskyy also announced plans to expand Ukraine’s diplomatic presence in Syria.
“We will strengthen our diplomatic presence in Syria—our embassy will be operational. We are ready to cooperate in the field of food security, as well as regarding infrastructure. We have agreed with the President of Syria on major contracts related to the agro-industrial complex. And we see opportunities here for other countries in the region as well,” he said.
Separately, Zelenskyy emphasized that Ukraine sees prospects for expanding cooperation with other countries in the region as well.
Syria has long been an arena of influence for external players, particularly Russia and Iran; however, according to Kyiv’s assessment, the current political changes are opening a new phase in international relations.
As a reminder, Ukraine risks becoming a victim of yet another war due to the escalation in the Middle East. Arms supplies and funding for the fight against Russia are under threat.
The Ukrainian Ministry of Foreign Affairs notes that a possible ceasefire in the Middle East could facilitate the resumption of peaceful dialogue. They expect this to help bring about a ceasefire and an end to the war between Ukraine and Russia.
