Turkish officials are set to inform U.S. Under Secretary of State John Bass during his discussions in Ankara this week that the elimination of terrorist groups is essential for achieving stability and security in Syria, according to a source from the Turkish Foreign Ministry.
Bass’s visit occurs amidst Turkey’s ongoing warnings regarding a potential cross-border military operation into northeastern Syria targeting the Kurdish YPG militia, should the group fail to comply with Turkey’s demands.
The YPG leads the U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), which have been pivotal in the fight against the Islamic State in Syria. However, Ankara considers the YPG a terrorist organization linked to Kurdish militants who have been engaged in a long-standing insurgency against the Turkish government, insisting that the group must disarm and dissolve.
During his meetings in Ankara on Thursday and Friday, Bass is scheduled to engage with Turkey’s deputy foreign ministers, with discussions primarily centered on the situation in Syria.
The talks are anticipated to concentrate on measures to foster stability and security in Syria, as well as to promote the formation of an inclusive government. The Turkish representatives are expected to reiterate the necessity of removing terrorist elements for these objectives to be realized. Additionally, the discussions will likely cover the potential expansion of U.S. sanctions exemptions for Syria to facilitate the country’s reconstruction efforts.
Ankara has consistently urged its NATO partner, Washington, to cease its backing of the YPG. The Turkish government has conducted multiple incursions against this group and currently holds significant areas in northern Syria. Since the removal of former President Bashar al-Assad, Syria’s Kurdish factions have faced challenges, particularly with the new administration’s favorable stance towards Turkey.
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