Turkey Strongly Opposes French Military Presence on Syrian Border

Turkey has rejected French troop deployment to its Syrian border, criticizing European nations for agenda-driven actions. Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan insists on a self-reliant French military strategy while addressing terrorism-related issues among its citizens in Syria. The situation remains delicate as Turkey threatens military action against the YPG militia associated with the SDF, seen as a terrorist group by Ankara.

Turkey has expressed strong opposition to the proposed deployment of French troops along its border with Syria, intended for the establishment of a secure zone to mitigate tensions with the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan criticized the involvement of European nations under U.S. auspices, asserting that it serves merely to further their self-interests without benefiting the region. Fidan emphasized Turkey’s commitment to taking action against the Kurdish YPG militia, which it deems a terrorist organization due to its affiliation with the PKK, unless significant conditions are met.

While the French government has not officially announced plans to patrol the Turkish-Syrian border, President Emmanuel Macron has reaffirmed France’s continued support for the SDF, a vital player in the ongoing Syrian civil conflict. Ilham Ahmed, a Kurdish official, has suggested that France and the U.S. could manage border security collaboratively, though Fidan demanded that any French military operations should not rely on American backing. Furthermore, he urged France to address the status of its citizens detained in Syria for terrorism-related offenses.

Turkey remains resolute in its position that any foreign forces in the region must act independently and directly address their own national concerns regarding terrorism, particularly before making any commitments to security in northern Syria.

The relationship between Turkey and the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) is fraught with tension, primarily due to Turkey’s designation of the YPG, a key faction of the SDF, as an extension of the PKK, which has violently opposed the Turkish state for decades. The proposal for French military presence arises amidst complex geopolitical maneuvers within Syria, where various actors, including the U.S. and France, have vested interests due to the protracted civil war and the fight against the Islamic State. The situation remains sensitive, with Turkey frequently threatening military action against groups it views as terrorist organizations.

In conclusion, Turkey’s vehement rejection of the proposed French troop deployment along the Syrian border underscores its broader concerns regarding regional security and sovereignty. The Turkish government demands that any external military engagements must not only respect its territorial integrity but also align with its domestic security imperatives. The ongoing complexities of the Syrian conflict necessitate careful navigation among involved foreign actors, each with distinct agendas that can impact Turkey’s national interests.

Original Source: www.middleeasteye.net