The EU for the first time relaxed Syrian sanctions, in order to ease shortages and provide economic support in rebel-held areas; the export of crude oil from those areas will be allowed, as will EU investments and the import of gas and oil technology. Gunmen kidnapped a Greek Orthodox bishop and an Assyrian Orthodox bishop as they traveled in a rebel-held area from Turkey to Aleppo; the gunmen killed the bishops’ driver. Government forces are focusing on Damascus and strategic areas connecting the capital with Homs and the coast.
