EU Commission head underlines need to focus on early recovery, reconstruction in Syria

Speaking to the European Parliament, Ursula von der Leyen stressed that the coming months would be critical for shaping Syria’s future, which she described as "full of promises, but also fraught with risks."

"Europe must engage both at the regional and local levels," she said, announcing that a top diplomat has been dispatched to the EU Delegation in Syria – the bloc’s embassy – marking an intensification of European engagement.

While reaffirming the bloc’s policy of no direct cooperation with the Assad regime, she revealed plans to increase direct contacts with Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) – the group which spearheaded the effort to depose the regime – and other factions on the ground.

The EU, already Syria’s largest donor, has provided €33 billion (over $34.5 billion) in aid since 2011, she said. However, von der Leyen suggested a potential pivot beyond immediate humanitarian relief, such as water, electricity, and infrastructure reconstruction.

"We might need a new focus on early recovery and reconstruction," she said, adding that such efforts would adhere to a “step-for-step approach” linked to progress in an inclusive political process.

She also proposed reconsidering sectoral sanctions to facilitate reconstruction, provided the Syrian leadership demonstrates tangible reforms.

"The new leadership in Damascus has to prove that their deeds match their words," she said.

On refugees, von der Leyen noted that while some Syrians have begun returning, the EU remains committed to ensuring that such returns are voluntary, safe, and dignified. She pledged continued support for those who choose to go back and stressed: "Syria belongs to all of its people, including those who fled from Assad’s brutality."