Erdogan Urges Withdrawal of Foreign Support for Kurdish Fighters in Syria

President Erdogan of Turkey expects foreign nations to withdraw support for Kurdish fighters in Syria following the potential fall of Bashar al-Assad. He considers the Kurdish YPG to be linked to the PKK, a terrorist organization. Discussions highlight the need for Kurdish integration into Syria’s national security as Turkey continues military operations against the SDF, raising concerns for regional stability.

President Tayyip Erdogan of Turkey has expressed expectations that foreign nations will withdraw support for Kurdish fighters in Syria following the potential fall of Bashar al-Assad. Erdogan emphasized the shift in the necessity for such support, particularly targeting the Kurdish YPG as Turkey perceives it to be affiliated with the PKK, which is deemed a terrorist organization by several nations, including the U.S. and the EU.

In discussions regarding future security for Syria, German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock highlighted the need for Kurdish forces to disarm and integrate into Syria’s national framework, reiterating that addressing Turkey’s security concerns is crucial for regional stability. Meanwhile, U.S. Assistant Secretary of State Barbara Leaf conveyed an ongoing initiative to negotiate a structured transition for the U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) based in northern Syria.

Amidst ongoing military actions, the U.S. currently maintains approximately 2,000 troops in Syria, cooperating with the YPG-led SDF. These forces were instrumental in combating the Islamic State from 2014 to 2017. In light of recent hostilities, Turkey, alongside its Syrian allies, has seized strategic areas such as the city of Manbij, necessitating a temporary ceasefire brokered by the United States.

Erdogan articulated a vision for a Syria where diverse ethnic and religious groups coexist harmoniously, stating that organizations like the PKK and Islamic State should be eradicated to secure this stability. SDF commander Mazloum Abdi indicated a willingness for outside Kurdish fighters to depart if peace agreements with Turkey could be established, acknowledging that their presence had been bolstered by members from foreign groups, including the PKK.

However, Turkish officials indicated that they would not consider a ceasefire until the SDF disarms and foreign fighters leave the area, firmly emphasizing Turkey’s ongoing counter-terrorism measures against the PKK and YPG.

In summary, President Erdogan’s assertions reflect Turkey’s demand for reduced foreign support to Kurdish groups in Syria following the Assad regime’s potential collapse. Discussions with German and U.S. officials indicate a focus on integrating Kurdish fighters into national security structures while addressing Turkey’s security concerns. The situation remains complex, underscored by ongoing military activities and diplomatic efforts to find a sustainable resolution.

Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com