The European Union has decided to renew restrictions on individuals and entities linked to the former Syrian administration run by Bashar al-Assad, who was toppled in December 2024.
“The EU considers that networks linked to the former al-Assad regime continue to retain influence and pose a risk of undermining the transition process and hindering efforts towards national reconciliation and accountability,” said a statement from the Council of the European Union on Monday, Reuters reported.
“Those designated are subject to an asset freeze and EU citizens and companies are prohibited from making funds available to them. Individuals are additionally subject to a travel ban, which prevents them from entering or transiting through EU member states,” it added.
The EU has, at the same time, increased ties with the new Syrian government, led by President Ahmed al-Sharaa, which replaced Assad’s administration.
Earlier this month, EU foreign ministers agreed to restore trade ties with Syria, reinstating a cooperation agreement that had been suspended in 2011.