In a significant diplomatic shift, Ukraine's foreign minister, Andrii Sybiha, met with Syria’s de facto leader, Ahmad al-Sharaa, in Damascus on Monday. This visit comes on the heels of Ukraine's recent commitment to send 500 tons of wheat flour to Syria via the United Nations World Food Program. This initiative aims to address the ongoing humanitarian crisis as over 90% of Syrians live in poverty, with many unsure of where their next meal will come from (Newsweek).

The backdrop of this engagement is characterized by Syria’s gradual distancing from its long-time allies, Russia and Iran, and the rekindling of ties with Western nations and Gulf Arab states, alongside Turkey, which has historically supported opposition forces during Syria's tumultuous civil war. The outgoing regime of President Bashar al-Assad has faced significant challenges in the wake of the uprising, leading to its eventual collapse. In a tweet, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed solidarity, stating, "We support the Syrian people in overcoming decades of dictatorial rule and restoring stability, security, and normal life in Syria" (AP News).

During the meeting, Foreign Minister Sybiha underscored Ukraine's readiness to share its experiences in collecting evidence and conducting investigations aimed at holding accountable those responsible for war crimes. He specifically noted that "a new Syria would become a country that respects international law," emphasizing the regime's need for accountability in the wake of the violence propagated by the Assad administration and its allies.

The political situation is further complicated by the appointment of Syria's first female Central Bank governor, Maysaa Sabreen, who is tasked with addressing the country’s economic turmoil. Her leadership will come amidst a backdrop of soaring inflation and significant devaluation of the Syrian pound due to ongoing sanctions and mismanagement issues arising from the civil war.

Alongside Ukraine’s pledge, Turkey has offered to export electricity to both Syria and Lebanon to alleviate severe power shortages that have plagued the region for years. Energy Minister Alparslan Bayraktar stated that a Turkish delegation is currently assessing Syria's energy needs, marking Ankara's newly supportive stance towards the new Syrian government after years of previous opposition.

As Syria steps into a new political landscape, the international community watches closely. The coming days could determine how the new regime consolidates power amidst ongoing conflicts between former regime loyalists and emerging political factions.