Donors at an EU-led conference pledged $6.3 billion to support Syria's recovery following the fall of Bashar al-Assad.

Axar.az, citing Reuters, reports that this year's pledges were lower than last year's $8.2 billion, largely due to U.S. aid cuts.

The conference, hosted by the EU since 2017, marked the first attendance of a Syrian government official, Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan al-Shibani.

EU officials see the event as a fresh start despite ongoing violence between Syria’s new Islamist rulers and Assad loyalists. The EU committed nearly $2.7 billion for 2025-2026, while the UN warned that Syria, having lost 40 years of development, faces a long road to recovery. Economic collapse and widespread poverty further complicate rebuilding efforts. The EU is willing to engage with Syria’s new rulers if they ensure an inclusive and peaceful transition.