Readout of Principal Deputy National Security Advisor Jon Finer's Meeting with Quint Deputy National Security Advisors: Xavier Chatel of France, Christian Aulbach of Germany, Pietro Sferra Carini of Italy, and Nick Catsaras and Matt Collins of the United Kingdom

On December 9, Principal Deputy National Security Advisor Jon Finer met virtually with the Deputy National Security Advisors of France, Germany, Italy and the United Kingdom. Mr. Finer discussed with his counterparts the fall of the Assad regime in Syria and the importance of working closely together across their respective capitals and with partners in the region to support the aspirations of the Syrian people and manage risks associated with the ongoing transition. The group discussed efforts to reinforce the ceasefire in Lebanon and reach a ceasefire and hostage deal in Gaza. Mr. Finer also noted the Biden-Harris Administration's efforts to ensure Ukraine has the strongest hand possible heading into 2025 and to increase costs on Russia for its continued aggression. The group discussed shared concerns over democratic backsliding in Georgia, including through last month's elections and more recent violence against protestors.