The latest
Explosions were heard in Damascus on Tuesday, with the cause not immediately clear, Reuters reported, as French President Emmanuel Macron visited the Syrian capital for talks with President Ahmad al-Sharaa.
Details
• The blasts: Reuters cited a witness saying explosions were heard in Damascus, without an immediate explanation for their source.
• Macron’s visit: Reuters reported that Macron arrived in Syria in the first trip by a European Union head of state since Assad was ousted.
• The agenda: The Associated Press said Macron was set to meet Sharaa and civil society representatives, with political and economic issues on the table.
• Earlier attack: Syrian authorities said a July 2 blast at a Damascus café killed 9 people and wounded 20.
• French position: France condemned the café attack and called for the circumstances to be fully clarified.
Background
The visit comes as Syria’s new authorities try to secure the capital, rebuild Western channels and test whether European engagement can move beyond symbolism into reconstruction, sanctions relief and security cooperation.
What to watch
Watch for an official Syrian explanation of the explosions, any French update on Macron’s movements, and possible new security measures around foreign delegations in Damascus.
