Von der Leyen: “Syria’s future fraught with risks. More contact with HTS”

Brussels – “The future of Syria is full of promise but also fraught with risks.” The key passage of EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen‘s speech in the European Parliament lies here: in the challenge of an ongoing change that the EU must know how to take responsibility for. “A credible and inclusive transition is a core European interest,” she reiterates. There is no longer Bashar al-Assad, but the Syrian leader’s escape means nothing. “But while the old Syria is gone, the new one is not born yet.” Here lies the key. The EU must show that it is capable, not give in to enthusiasm, and “follow a step-by-step approach.” 

Can the new Syrian ruling class be trusted? That is the question nagging von der Leyen, who has an answer: no. Not at this time, at least. “Some of the first steps taken by the new leadership are encouraging,” she admits. However, “The new leadership in Damascus has to prove that their deeds match their words,” she added.

The new Syria is already a puzzle. There are too many unknowns and too many questions. Von der Leyen shares them with the House of Parliament. “Will there be a political transition that respects national unity? Will all minorities be safe and protected?” Most importantly, “Will the fight against Daesh continue?” The latter question is far from random, considering the growing risk of attack and European concerns.