Ukrainian President Zelensky visits Syria for talks with President Ahmed al-Sara

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky traveled to Damascus to meet with his Syrian counterpart, Ahmed al-Sara, marking his first visit to the country. The meeting was attended by Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, following Zelensky's recent stop in Istanbul. Official sources, including the Syrian news agency Sana, reported that the delegation also met with Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani. Discussions centered on regional security, the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine, and potential defense cooperation. The parties also addressed food security and the exchange of expertise in defense sectors. Ukraine has expressed concern that a prolonged conflict in the Middle East could divert global attention and resources, potentially reducing Western arms shipments to Kyiv. Furthermore, officials highlighted fears that rising oil and gas prices resulting from regional instability could financially benefit Russia. The meeting underscores Ukraine's attempt to navigate complex geopolitical landscapes amid its own conflict.