French President Macron Makes Historic Visit to Syria, First by Western European Leader Since New Government

French President Emmanuel Macron arrived in Damascus for a landmark visit, becoming the first Western European head of state to do so since Syria's new authorities took power in December 2024. Macron is advocating for a "free, pluralist Syria" and aims for the country to play a moderating role in Middle East tensions, signaling a potential shift in international engagement with Syria.