Did Trump Meet Syria's Ahmed al-Sharaa in Riyadh?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
In a significant diplomatic move, US President Donald Trump met with Syria's interim leader Ahmed al-Sharaa in Riyadh, highlighting a potential shift in Middle Eastern relations. This meeting included Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and discussed lifting sanctions on Syria, aiming to foster a brighter future for the region. Delve into the details of this impactful encounter.
Key Takeaways
- Trump met with Ahmed al-Sharaa in Riyadh.
- Discussion centered on lifting sanctions on Syria.
- Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman was present.
- This meeting is part of a broader Middle Eastern visit.
- Trump envisions a collaborative future for the region.
Riyadh, May 14 (NationPress) US President Donald Trump held a meeting with Syria's interim leader Ahmed al-Sharaa in the company of Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister of Saudi Arabia, in Riyadh on Wednesday.
According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, "HRH the Crown Prince holds a meeting with the US President and the Syrian President," accompanied by photos capturing the gathering of the three leaders.
Also present were US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and other senior officials.
In another statement, it was noted: "A meeting brings together HRH the Crown Prince, the US President, and the Syrian President in Riyadh, with the Turkish President participating via phone."
This meeting followed Trump’s announcement on Tuesday evening regarding the lifting of sanctions on Syria.
During his speech in Riyadh, Trump stated, "After discussing the situation in Syria with the Crown Prince and also with President Erdogan of Turkey... among others in the Middle East, I will be ordering the cessation of sanctions against Syria, to provide them with an opportunity for greatness."
Earlier this month, Ahmed al-Sharaa, previously an Al Qaeda Commander, met with French President Emmanuel Macron at the Elysee Palace in Paris, continuing Damascus' diplomatic efforts under his leadership.
Sharaa led the Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), which played a crucial role in the downfall of the regime led by former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad in December.
Trump’s visit to Saudi Arabia commenced on Tuesday as part of a four-day trip to the Middle East, which will also include stops in Qatar and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
Upon arriving in Riyadh, Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud welcomed Trump at the King Khalid International Airport, where he was honored with a 21-gun salute and trumpet fanfare. The Crown Prince and US President then engaged in friendly discussions over Saudi coffee at the airport’s VIP lounge.
Later, the Crown Prince received President Trump at the Royal Court in Al-Yamamah Palace in Riyadh.
In his address on Tuesday evening, Trump remarked, "Before our eyes, a new generation of leaders is transcending the ancient conflicts and tired divisions of the past, forging a future where the Middle East is characterized by commerce, not chaos; where it exports technology, not terrorism; and where people of different nations, religions, and beliefs collaborate in building cities together instead of destroying each other."
Point of View
It is essential to recognize the significance of President Trump's meeting with Syria's interim leader in Riyadh. This diplomatic endeavor could usher in a new era of cooperation and stability in the Middle East. The ongoing discussions around lifting sanctions on Syria reflect a strategic approach to addressing regional challenges, emphasizing the importance of collaboration over conflict.
NationPress
27/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the purpose of Trump's meeting with Ahmed al-Sharaa?
The meeting aimed to discuss lifting sanctions on Syria and explore diplomatic relations between the US and Syria.
Who else attended the meeting apart from Trump and al-Sharaa?
The meeting included Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, among other officials.
What is Ahmed al-Sharaa known for?
Ahmed al-Sharaa is a former Al Qaeda Commander and the interim leader of Syria's government-in-exile.
What are the implications of lifting sanctions on Syria?
Lifting sanctions could provide Syria with opportunities for economic recovery and enhance diplomatic relations with Western nations.
What future actions did Trump suggest in his speech?
Trump suggested a vision for a Middle East defined by commerce and cooperation instead of conflict.
