Zelensky Holds Talks with Syria’s Sharaa on Security Cooperation Amid Iran War Tensions

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky visited Syria on Sunday for high-level talks with Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa, marking a significant diplomatic engagement as Kyiv expands its outreach across the Middle East amid rising regional tensions linked to the Iran war.

The visit is Zelensky’s first trip to Syria since diplomatic relations between the two countries were restored late last year following the fall of Syria’s long-time leader, Bashar al-Assad. The renewed ties have opened the door for discussions on cooperation in security, defense, and economic development.

According to statements shared by Zelensky on social media, both sides expressed interest in strengthening bilateral relations through the exchange of military expertise and strategic collaboration. Ukraine, which has gained extensive experience in countering drone and missile attacks during its ongoing war with Russia, is seeking to share that knowledge with partner nations in the region.

“We agreed to work together to provide more security and opportunities for development for our societies,” Zelensky noted, emphasizing mutual interest in enhancing defense capabilities and regional stability. Talks reportedly included discussions on improving coordination in addressing aerial threats, an area where Syria currently faces limitations due to a lack of advanced air defense systems.

In addition to security cooperation, food security emerged as a key topic during the meeting. Zelensky highlighted Ukraine’s role as a major global grain producer and reiterated its reliability as a supplier of agricultural goods. Both leaders explored potential joint initiatives to strengthen food supply chains and ensure stability across the region.

The visit to Damascus is part of a broader diplomatic tour by Zelensky across the Middle East. In recent days, he has also engaged with leaders in countries such as Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar, where Ukraine has signed or is nearing agreements on long-term military cooperation and strategic partnerships. Discussions have also extended to energy collaboration, including gas infrastructure and development projects.

Syria’s strategic position adds another dimension to the talks. The country hosts major Russian military bases used for naval and air operations, which remain relevant in the broader geopolitical context involving Ukraine and its allies. Syrian officials have indicated ongoing efforts to repurpose these facilities into training centers for the national army.

Zelensky’s Middle East engagements reflect Ukraine’s growing effort to build alliances beyond Europe, combining defense diplomacy with economic cooperation. As regional tensions continue to evolve, such partnerships are increasingly viewed as part of a wider strategy to enhance both security and resilience in interconnected global systems.