Volodymyr Zelenskiy said Ukraine and Syria have agreed to deepen cooperation on security and development following talks with Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa in Damascus.
The visit marks Zelenskiy’s first trip to Syria since diplomatic relations were restored between the two countries in September, following political changes in Damascus.
Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskiy is greeted by members of the Syrian goverment, as he arrives for a meeting with Syria’s President Ahmed al-Sharaa, in Damascus, Syria, April 5, 2026. REUTERS/Khalil Ashawi
Focus on security, defence and regional stability
Zelenskiy said discussions covered a wide range of topics, including defense cooperation and the broader regional situation amid escalating tensions linked to the war involving Iran.
He added that the two sides agreed to work together to strengthen security and create new opportunities for development.
Three-way talks were also held involving Hakan Fidan, Turkey’s foreign minister, addressing issues from regional security to infrastructure and energy cooperation.
Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskiy meets with Syria’s Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan al-Shibani, amid Russia’s attack on Ukraine, in Damascus, Syria, April 5, 2026. Ukrainian Presidential Press Service/Handout via REUTERS ATTENTION EDITORS – THIS IMAGE HAS BEEN SUPPLIED BY A THIRD PARTY.
Ukraine promotes military expertise in region
The Ukrainian president’s visit is part of a wider tour of Middle Eastern countries, during which Kyiv has been offering its expertise in countering drone and missile attacks developed during its ongoing war with Russia.
Syria currently lacks air defense systems capable of intercepting such threats, according to the report.
Food security and trade also discussed
Zelenskiy said Ukraine, a major global grain producer, is seeking to support food security in the Middle East and presented Kyiv as a reliable supplier.
The two sides explored opportunities to strengthen regional food supply chains alongside broader economic cooperation.
Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskiy shakes hands with Syria’s President Ahmed al-Sharaa as they meet in Damascus, Syria, April 5, 2026. REUTERS/Khalil Ashawi
Expanding regional partnerships
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha described the visit as a “milestone,” noting that discussions also included maritime trade and wider cooperation.
Zelenskiy has recently signed long-term military agreements with Saudi Arabia and Qatar, and said a similar deal with the United Arab Emirates is nearing completion.
The visit follows meetings in Turkey, where Zelenskiy agreed on new security steps with President Tayyip Erdogan and discussed joint energy projects.
