Key facts
- US President Donald Trump met Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa in Ankara, Turkey.
- Trump described Sharaa as 'fantastic' and 'highly respected.'
- Trump stated Sharaa has unified Syria in approximately 18 months.
- Trump indicated support for removing Syria from the US State Sponsors of Terrorism list.
- Trump suggested Syria could assist in disarming Hezbollah in Lebanon.
US President Donald Trump met with Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa on the sidelines of the NATO summit in Ankara, Turkey, on July 8, 2026. Trump lavished praise on Sharaa, calling him 'fantastic' and 'highly respected,' and noted his success in unifying Syria within approximately 18 months.
This meeting represents a significant diplomatic engagement for Sharaa, who was previously designated a terrorist by the US and had a $10 million bounty on his head. The meeting was facilitated by Turkey, which has been instrumental in Sharaa's rise to power. Trump's embrace of Sharaa is described as a standout foreign policy move.
Trump indicated support for removing Syria from the US State Sponsors of Terrorism list and allowing investment in the country, a key agenda item for Sharaa. When asked about a previous suggestion for Syria to disarm Hezbollah in Lebanon, Trump stated that Syria could help and that progress is being made.
The Syrian Foreign Minister, Asaad al-Shaibani, recently visited Lebanon to reassure officials about Syria's intentions and ease concerns regarding potential US-backed military intervention.