President Erdogan anticipates that foreign allies will stop supporting Kurdish fighters in Syria after Assad’s ousting. He criticized the continued U.S. backing of the YPG, associated with the PKK, and emphasized a need for Kurdish disarmament. The U.S. and Germany are exploring a managed transition for the SDF, yet Turkey remains firm on counter-terrorism actions until disarmament occurs.
President Tayyip Erdogan has announced Turkey’s expectation that foreign nations will cease their support for Kurdish fighters in Syria following the downfall of Bashar al-Assad. He emphasized this stance during a press conference, stating that it is unjustified for external parties to continue aiding the Kurdish YPG forces, which Turkey links to the PKK, a designated terrorist organization.
Erdogan further asserted that both the U.S.-backed YPG and the Islamic State have no viable future in Syria. He expressed confidence that collaboration with these so-called terrorist organizations would end, thereby leading to their swift defeat.
In response to Turkey’s concerns, German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock indicated the necessity of disarming Kurdish groups and integrating them into Syria’s national security framework. U.S. officials have also acknowledged the importance of transitioning the role of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) amidst changing circumstances on the ground.
The United States currently maintains approximately 2,000 troops in Syria, collaborating with the YPG-led SDF, which played a crucial role in combatting the Islamic State from 2014 to 2017. However, Turkey’s growing military operations against the YPG have raised tensions, particularly following the recent seizure of Manbij by Turkish forces and their allied groups.
Erdogan envisions a reformed Syria where diverse ethnic and religious communities coexist peacefully. He has reiterated the imperative to eliminate terrorist threats such as the PKK to secure this vision. Meanwhile, SDF commander Mazloum Abdi indicated a willingness for Kurdish fighters from abroad to withdraw if a truce is established with Turkey. However, the Turkish Defense Ministry has dismissed the possibility of a ceasefire, insisting that counter-terrorism actions will persist until the PKK/YPG disarms.
Turkey’s insistence on withdrawing foreign support for Kurdish forces in Syria is rooted in its security concerns regarding the PKK. As the situation evolves post-Assad’s regime, both Turkey and the U.S. are exploring transitional strategies for the SDF. Despite escalating tensions and military actions, leaders seek a stable and inclusive Syria, though challenges remain in achieving disarmament and integration of Kurdish forces.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
