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Trump Ends 49-Year Sanctions, Shifts US Policy on Syria

5/20/2025

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Summary

Story summary

In a groundbreaking meeting, Syria's interim president Ahmed al-Sharaa, a former jihadist leader, sat down with President Donald Trump, who declared the end of 49 years of sanctions on Syria. This pivotal decision signals a dramatic shift in US policy, striving to bring stability to a nation ravaged by war, while al-Sharaa grapples with his controversial past and pressing internal issues.

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Story summary

In a groundbreaking meeting, Syria's interim president Ahmed al-Sharaa, a former jihadist leader, sat down with President Donald Trump, who declared the end of 49 years of sanctions on Syria. This pivotal decision signals a dramatic shift in US policy, striving to bring stability to a nation ravaged by war, while al-Sharaa grapples with his controversial past and pressing internal issues.