Ukraine and Syria formally restored diplomatic relations on Wednesday as their leaders met on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said.

Ukraine broke off relations with Syria in June 2022 and has worked to engage with Syrian authorities since December 2024.

"We are pleased with this important step and are ready to support the Syrian people on their path to stability," Zelenskyy wrote on Telegram after announcing the restoration of diplomatic relations.

Zelenskyy sent his foreign minister to Damascus last December to hold talks with the new Syrian leadership. The Syrian leadership said it was hoping for close relations with Kyiv.

On Wednesday, Zelenskyy told the UN General Assembly in his speech that Syria deserved stronger international support, and that Damascus was still having to appeal for an easing of crippling economic sanctions.

(With input from Reuters)