Germany’s foreign minister says sanctions against Syrian officials responsible for war crimes must remain in place but called for a “smart approach” to provide relief to the Syrian population after last month’s overthrow of President Bashar Assad.

German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock has advocated a relaxation of some EU sanctions against Syria following the ouster of long-time ruler Bashar al-Assad. "We as an international community must not let the chance of a future for Syria pass us by,

Syria’s transitional government “sounds good so far,” Germany’s foreign minister told POLITICO — but actions speak louder than words.

German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock said Syrians needed "quick" relief and pledged additional aid. Syrian interim leader Ahmed al-Sharaa is urging Western states to ease sanctions on the country.

The sanctions currently in place are primarily against the former government of Bashar al-Assad and his allies.

Germany’s foreign minister has warned Syria’s new leaders that lifting sanctions imposed on the country will depend on them not establishing a new Islamist government.