US President Donald Trump has expressed satisfaction over recent political and military developments in Syria, following a major offensive carried out by the Syrian army against the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). The SDF had previously been supported by Washington as one of the main partners in the fight against ISIS in northeastern Syria.
Speaking to reporters, Trump said he was “very happy” with the current situation unfolding in the country. His remarks came shortly after a phone call with Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa, who is expected to travel to Moscow on Wednesday for high-level talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
“I had a great conversation with the highly respected president of Syria,” Trump stated, adding that discussions focused on Syria and the broader regional situation. The conversation highlights Washington’s evolving approach toward Syria’s leadership and security structure.
US officials have noted that Syria’s internal situation has undergone a significant transformation in recent months. The US envoy for Syria described the country as having “fundamentally” changed, pointing to Damascus joining the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS as its 90th member in late 2025. This move signals Syria’s renewed role in international counterterrorism efforts.
However, Washington’s shift in position regarding the SDF initially raised concerns among some members of Trump’s Republican Party. Senator Lindsey Graham previously suggested that the United States should consider reimposing sanctions on Syria in response to the military offensive. Since then, Graham has credited Trump with helping restore stability in the region.
Meanwhile, the Kremlin confirmed that President Putin will meet al-Sharaa in Moscow to discuss bilateral relations and the current situation in the Middle East. Syrian officials stated that al-Sharaa reaffirmed Syria’s commitment to territorial integrity, national sovereignty, and preserving civil peace.
The SDF announced on January 18 that its forces had withdrawn from the northeastern Syrian cities of Raqqa and Deir Az Zor following the Syrian army’s operation. The withdrawal has generated mixed reactions among local residents.
As Syria enters a new phase of regional diplomacy, the international community continues to monitor the implications of these shifting alliances and security arrangements.
