Syria recognizes Kosovo in major diplomatic reversal

In a surprise diplomatic shift, Syria has officially recognized Kosovo as an independent and sovereign state following a trilateral meeting in Riyadh with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Kosovo President Vjosa Osmani.

Why is this important: The move marks a rare reversal for Syria, which had previously backed Serbia’s stance on Kosovo and opposed its independence. For Kosovo, it is a key win in its ongoing push for global recognition — especially from countries aligned with Russia, Serbia’s main backer. The recognition came with Saudi Arabia’s direct mediation, highlighting Riyadh’s growing role as a geopolitical broker.

Context: Syria’s foreign ministry issued the recognition on October 29, stating it was based on the “right of peoples to self-determination” and a desire to support “peace and stability in the Balkans and the world.” Kosovo’s president called it “a decision of historic significance,” saying it reflects shared struggles for freedom and mutual respect for sovereignty.

Until now, Syria had rejected Kosovo’s independence since its 2008 declaration, aligning itself with Serbia and Russia. The recognition follows similar moves by Kenya and Sudan earlier this year — part of a new wave of recognitions driven by diplomatic outreach and Gulf mediation.

Reactions: Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić dismissed the recognition as “expected,” attributing it to “external influences.”

Kosovo’s Foreign Ministry called it “a step toward durable peace,” and thanked Saudi Arabia for its role.

Saudi Arabia said it welcomed Syria’s decision and hoped it would lead to deeper cooperation and stability in the region.

What else: Syria’s move brings the number of UN member states recognizing Kosovo to over 120, though major hurdles remain — including UN membership, which Russia continues to block. Diplomatic relations between Kosovo and Syria are expected to be formalized soon, with talks on cooperation already underway.