Turkey’s President Erdogan anticipates that foreign allies will retract their support for Kurdish forces in Syria following the expected toppling of Bashar al-Assad. The focus is on disarming Kurdish fighters and integrating them into the national security structure. The ongoing U.S. involvement with the Kurdish-led SDF remains a contentious issue amid escalating tensions in the region.
President Tayyip Erdogan of Turkey has expressed expectations that foreign allies will cease their support for Kurdish forces in Syria following the potential downfall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime. Ankara aims to isolate Kurdish groups, particularly the YPG, which have cooperated with U.S. forces. German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock emphasized the necessity for Kurdish groups to disarm and integrate into Syria’s national security framework, highlighting Turkey’s security interests in achieving stability.
During a report to the press after a summit in Egypt, President Erdogan stated that the support for the YPG fighters is no longer justified. He labeled the YPG as an affiliate of the PKK, a group designated as terrorist by multiple countries including Turkey, the U.S., and the EU. Erdogan further noted the similarities between the YPG and the Islamic State, asserting that neither entity possesses a viable future in Syria.
Erdogan declared that it is crucial for any power to discontinue collaboration with terrorist organizations, indicating that the leadership of both Islamic State and the PKK will face significant repercussions. U.S. Assistant Secretary of State Barbara Leaf stated efforts are ongoing to develop a structured transition for the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) in light of changing conditions in the region.
Currently, the United States maintains approximately 2,000 troops in Syria, working alongside the YPG-led SDF, which had previously played a key role in countering Islamic State forces. Tensions have escalated since the overthrow of Assad, with Turkey and allied Syrian factions capturing the city of Manbij from the SDF, thereby necessitating a U.S.-brokered ceasefire.
Erdogan articulated a vision for a reconciled Syria where diverse ethnic and religious groups coexist peacefully, emphasizing the need for the eradication of threats like the PKK and Islamic State. Meanwhile, SDF commander Mazloum Abdi indicated that Kurdish fighters originating from outside Syria would depart from their ranks if a ceasefire is established with Turkey. However, a Turkish official has dismissed the possibility of a ceasefire until the PKK/YPG disarms completely.
In conclusion, President Erdogan’s statements reflect Turkey’s demand for discontinuation of foreign support for Kurdish forces in Syria, particularly following the volatility post-Assad. The integration of Kurdish fighters into national security and disarmament remains a focal point for Turkey and its allies. With ongoing conflicts and recent territorial changes, the geopolitical landscape in Syria continues to evolve, necessitating careful management of alliances and security policies.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
