Kaja Kallas has directed a senior EU diplomat to engage with the provisional government of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), indicating a potential normalization of ties despite HTS being blacklisted as a terrorist organization. Kallas emphasized the need for HTS to demonstrate stable governance and respect for minorities. HTS, now led by Ahmed al-Sharaa, aims to transition Syria to a free-market economy but faces accusations of human rights abuses. A recent joint declaration from international representatives called for respect for human rights and support for Syria's unity. The future of diplomatic relations and sanctions against Assad's regime remains uncertain.