U.S. companies Baker Hughes, Hunt Energy, and Argent LNG will develop a masterplan to rebuild Syria’s shattered oil, gas, and power infrastructure, Argent LNG CEO Jonathan Bass said Friday. The move follows President Trump’s decision to lift long-standing U.S. sanctions on Syria.

The firms aim to assess and upgrade energy production, including oil and gas exploration and combined-cycle power generation, initially focusing on areas west of the Euphrates controlled by the Syrian government. Syria’s power sector has collapsed from 9.5 GW of generation capacity in 2011 to just 1.6 GW today.

Bass, who met with Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa in April, said the companies are working closely with local authorities to craft a comprehensive plan. His visit to Damascus this week coincided with Israeli airstrikes in the capital.

Investor interest has surged since sanctions were eased, with Gulf firms also pledging billions for Syria’s recovery. In May, Qatar’s UCC Holding signed a $7 billion deal for new power projects, including four gas plants and a 1,000-MW solar facility.

"This visit signals a growing interest among American companies and investors in engaging with Syria," said Finance Minister Yisr Barnieh.

Source: Reuters

The move follows allegations he sought help from Trump to interfere in Brazil's judiciary.

Federal police raided Bolsonaro’s home, fitted him with an ankle monitor, and cited risk of flight. Justice Alexandre de Moraes called Bolsonaro’s outreach to Trump a threat to national sovereignty.

The former leader faces trial for allegedly plotting a coup to block President Lula from taking office in 2023.

Source: Reuters