Explosions heard near Macron's Damascus hotel amid high-risk, landmark visit

AI Summary

Explosions were reported near a hotel in Damascus as French President Emmanuel Macron conducts a surprise visit. The visit, hosted by Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa, comes amid efforts to reduce sanctions on Syria and improve diplomatic relations.

Explosions were heard in Damascus as French President Emmanuel Macron is holding a surprise visit to Damascus, hosted by Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa. Macron played a major role in pushing Europe and the United States to drop most sanctions on Syria. FRANCE 24's Clovis Casali and Matthew-Mary Caruchet tell us more about the risks and stakes of this visit.