“The Syrian Example Shows That Russia Can Be Kicked Out,” European Leaders Respond to the Collapse of the Russia-Backed Assad Regime

The international community has voiced a range of responses to the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime. Leaders and officials from various nations have shared their perspectives, highlighting the potential implications for Syria and its allies, Russia and Iran.

Estonia

Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas described the fall of Assad’s regime as a “positive and long-awaited development,” emphasizing its reflection on the vulnerabilities of his supporters. “Our priority is to ensure security in the region. I will work with all the constructive partners, in Syria and in the region,” she added.

Lithuania

Lithuanian Foreign Minister Gabrielius Landsbergis highlighted the broader significance of the event, stating, “The Syrian example shows that Russia can be kicked out and will go home. The Baltics were right – the West is strong enough to win. We don’t need to fear ‘the Bear’ in Ukraine or anywhere else he is causing chaos.”

Latvia

Latvian President Edgars Rinkēvičs celebrated the end of Assad’s rule while cautioning about the challenges ahead for Syria. “Bloody Assad regime is gone. While Syrian people face many challenges and uncertainties ahead, we celebrate the demise of a dictator. Also a message to other autocrats: you are much more vulnerable than you think. Also a strategic blow to Russia and Iran. Not a bad day.”

Germany

The German Foreign Office, through Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock, expressed relief over the end of Assad’s rule, calling it a “big relief for millions of people in Syria after an eternity of atrocities.” However, the statement acknowledged the difficulty of assessing the unfolding situation and urged continued vigilance and support for the Syrian people.

France

French President Emmanuel Macron hailed the event as the fall of a “barbaric state,” paying tribute to the courage and resilience of the Syrian people. Macron emphasized France’s commitment to ensuring peace and stability in the region, calling for a “peaceful and inclusive political transition” in line with UN Security Council Resolution 2254.

Spain

The Spanish government called for unity and cooperation during this critical period. In a statement, they urged all parties to work towards an inclusive transition that preserves Syria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. Spain also reaffirmed its commitment to assisting its citizens in Syria through its embassy in Damascus.

The fall of Assad has marked a significant geopolitical shift, with global leaders underscoring both the opportunities for a new chapter in Syria and the broader implications for authoritarian regimes and their allies.

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha commented on the collapse of Bashar al-Assad’s regime in Syria.

Sybiha stated, “Assad has fallen. This is how it has always been and will always be for dictators who bet on Putin. He always betrays those who rely on him. The main goal now is to restore security in Syria and effectively protect its people from violence.”

He emphasized Ukraine’s commitment to regional stability, underscoring the need for security restoration in Syria and political dialogue. Sybiha also expressed Ukraine’s willingness to re-establish relations with Syria in the future while supporting the Syrian people.

Earlier, Syrian rebels announced the collapse of Bashar al-Assad’s regime following the capture of Damascus, marking the end of over two decades of authoritarian rule. Rebel forces, led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), swiftly seized key strongholds, prompting Assad to flee to an undisclosed location.