Trump, Assad Speak Directly in Rare Call, Discuss Syria's Future

In a highly unusual diplomatic contact, former U.S. President Donald Trump and Syrian President Bashar al-Assad spoke by telephone this week. The two leaders discussed the situation in Syria. According to a summary from Assad's office, they affirmed support for Syria's territorial unity and for continued efforts against terrorism. Both presidents expressed a shared goal for a "strong and unified Syria." They stated such a country is necessary to confront regional and international challenges. Direct communication between a U.S. and Syrian leader is extremely rare. The current U.S. government, under President Joe Biden, maintains a policy of isolating the Assad regime and does not recognize its legitimacy. The call represents a notable break from standard U.S. foreign policy.