Syria has told Washington it is prepared to sharply reduce Russian oil imports as Damascus seeks removal from the U.S. list of state sponsors of terrorism.
Sources familiar with the discussions said the United States did not formally make ending Russian purchases a condition, but indicated that doing so could accelerate the designation’s removal.
Russian shipments to Syria rose 75 percent this year to roughly 60,000 barrels per day, making Moscow the country’s dominant crude supplier despite Damascus’s growing alignment with Western governments.
A Syrian energy official said authorities are already searching for alternative suppliers and expect a major shift. Analysts warned, however, that replacing Russian crude too quickly could create shortages or raise import costs.
President Donald Trump notified Congress on July 8 of his intention to remove Syria from the terrorism list, beginning a 45-day review period. Washington is also examining ways to reduce Russia’s remaining military and economic influence in Syria.
