Germany Pledges €300 Million in Aid to Syria Ahead of EU Donor Conference

Germany has pledged an additional €300 million ($326 million) in humanitarian aid for the Syrian people before the EU's donor conference in Brussels. Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock stated that over half of the funds will directly support Syrians, bypassing the Syrian transitional government. The aid, channeled through the UN and other organizations, will focus on food, healthcare, emergency shelters, and protection for vulnerable groups. Syrian refugees and host communities in Jordan, Lebanon, Iraq, and Turkey will also benefit. Baerbock stressed the need for a political process for lasting peace. Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shibani will attend the conference. The EU aims for a fresh start after Assad's removal in December, despite recent violence. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas emphasized urgent humanitarian needs and hopes for progress after the integration of the SDF into Syrian institutions. The EU is willing to engage with Syria's new leadership if they commit to a peaceful transition. Last year's conference secured €7.5 billion in grants and loans.