Syria cuts Russian oil imports to seek US terrorism list removal

Syrian officials have told the United States they will sharply reduce imports of Russian crude oil in an effort to improve the chances of Washington removing Syria from its list of state sponsors of terrorism. The move follows President Donald Trump's notification to Congress of his intent to lift the designation, which triggered a 45‑day review period. While the United States has not made the oil cut a formal precondition, American officials indicated that ending the purchases would “improve the chances of lifting the SST designation quickly and without complications.”

Russian oil shipments to Syria rose about 75% this year to roughly 60,000 barrels per day, making Moscow the dominant supplier. Damascus is already seeking alternative sources, including talks with ConocoPhillips, Novaterra and TotalEnergies. The United States is also reviewing options to reduce Russia’s military footprint in Syria, while Syrian President Ahmad al‑Sharaa says discussions are ongoing about scaling back Russian bases at Tartus and Hmeimim.