Erdogan Expects Allies to Withdraw Support for Kurdish Fighters in Syria

Turkey’s President Erdogan anticipates that foreign support for Kurdish fighters in Syria will be withdrawn following Assad’s removal. German officials advocate for the disarmament of Kurdish forces, while U.S. representatives work towards managing the transition of the Syrian Democratic Forces amid heightened tensions. Erdogan emphasizes the need for eradication of terrorist threats to create a harmonious Syria.

President Tayyip Erdogan of Turkey has articulated expectations that foreign nations will retract support for Kurdish fighters in Syria following the removal of Bashar al-Assad from power. Turkey’s objective is to isolate the Kurdish groups, which have historically collaborated with U.S. forces. In a recent statement, Erdogan emphasized that there should no longer be any rationale for providing support to the Kurdish YPG fighters, a faction that Turkey views as linked to the PKK, a designated terrorist organization by Turkey, the U.S., and the EU.

Following Erdogan’s statements, Germany’s Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock remarked that it is crucial for Kurdish fighters to disarm and be integrated into Syria’s national security framework. Meanwhile, Barbara Leaf, U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for Near Eastern Affairs, indicated that the U.S. is collaborating with both Turkey and the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) to ensure a structured transition regarding the role of SDF in Syria.

Remarkably, the U.S. currently maintains around 2,000 troops in Syria, providing support to the YPG-led SDF, which has played a pivotal role in combating the Islamic State between 2014 and 2017. Following Assad’s downfall, Turkey’s military operations against the SDF intensified. Erdogan expressed a desire for a new Syria that fosters harmony among all ethnic and religious groups, asserting the need to eliminate threats such as the Islamic State and PKK.

In light of current tensions, SDF commander Mazloum Abdi acknowledged that Kurdish fighters from abroad would withdraw if a truce with Turkey were established. Nevertheless, a Turkish Defence Ministry official confirmed that there are currently no discussions regarding a ceasefire with the SDF. Turkey remains resolute in its counter-terrorism efforts until the PKK/YPG disarms and foreign fighters exit Syria.

In conclusion, President Erdogan’s assertion marks a significant shift in Turkey’s stance towards Kurdish forces in Syria, particularly in the context of the recent geopolitical changes following Assad’s ousting. Both German and U.S. officials recognize the necessity of addressing Turkey’s security concerns while advocating for the disarmament of Kurdish fighters. The evolving situation necessitates careful navigation of regional dynamics to foster stability in Syria.

Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com