Panorama of Weak: Syria’s post-sanctions test, and stalled Ukraine peace talks

Arab newspapers issued over the past week covered the situation in Syria following the lifting of sanctions, developments in Lebanon, and the ongoing war in Ukraine.

Lifting Sanctions: A First Step, But What About Internal Victory?

Starting with Syria, Al-Arab (London) newspaper argued that lifting sanctions on Syria does not represent the end of the path but rather the beginning of a real test of the country’s ability to transform political easing into a comprehensive national renaissance.

The newspaper emphasized that the upcoming phase requires a strategic vision based on initiative rather than reaction, enabling Syria to move from a battleground to a productive and effective state.

Al-Arab stressed that this moment should be a station for a comprehensive review of policies and priorities, opening the door for constructive criticism, a free press, and political participation, considering democracy and transparency as guarantees of stability and trust-building, not merely political luxuries.

Between “Paris Vision and Washington’s Desire”: Lebanon’s Path to Normalization

Al-Liwaa newspaper focused on Lebanon, noting that the country is experiencing political and security openness to ready-made international proposals, amid intensified visits by Western and Arab envoys, particularly the French.

The newspaper observed that international paths intersect in Lebanon regarding southern security files, indirect negotiations with Israel, and internal political divisions. This reflects the country’s need for external sponsorship, which may lead to a form of indirect oversight shaping Lebanon’s regional role and the future of its political system.

Ukraine: Guarantees and Concessions!

Al-Khaleej newspaper discussed ongoing negotiations to end the war in Ukraine and attempts to reach a peace agreement, focusing on the main contradiction between American and European optimism regarding the progress of talks, and Ukraine’s insistence on not conceding territory in exchange for halting the war.

The newspaper noted that U.S. optimism clashes with major obstacles to reaching a near-term agreement, chiefly Kyiv’s refusal to cede territories it lost in Donetsk and Luhansk in exchange for ending the war, despite U.S. and European pressure.

It pointed out that Ukraine’s accession to NATO is now almost ruled out, while alternative security guarantees remain under debate. At the same time, Europe is trying to solidify its political and security presence, whereas Washington tends to reduce direct involvement. This reflects a strategic shift that could lead to profound geopolitical changes in the structure of the Western alliance and transatlantic relations.

ANHA