Turkey’s Stance on Syrian Kurdish Groups: Security Concerns and Military Readiness

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan declared that Turkey will take necessary measures if the new Syrian administration does not address concerns regarding US-allied Kurdish groups deemed terrorist organizations. He called for the disbandment of the YPG, asserting Turkey’s commitment to its national security amid escalating hostilities following Assad’s fall.

On December 21, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan stated that Ankara will take all necessary measures to ensure its security if the newly formed Syrian government fails to address Turkey’s concerns regarding the Kurdish groups it views as terrorist organizations. Particularly, Turkey sees the YPG, a prominent faction within the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), as an extension of the Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK), a group that has long waged an insurgency against Turkey. Since the recent political turmoil in Syria following the fall of Bashar al-Assad, Turkey and allied Syrian forces have intensified their military operations against the YPG, seizing control of critical areas such as Manbij. Fidan emphasized that Turkey’s preferred approach would be for the new Syrian administration to resolve these issues while respecting the country’s territorial unity and sovereignty, insisting that the YPG must be disbanded. He warned that if these conditions are not met, Turkey would take action to safeguard its national security. This stance exhibits Turkey’s determination to mitigate perceived threats along its borders, particularly from groups with historical ties to insurgency against the Turkish state.

The ongoing political crisis in Syria has led to significant geopolitical shifts, especially concerning Kurdish groups perceived as threats by Turkey. The YPG, which has received support from the United States, is viewed by Turkey as part of a broader PKK terrorist organization that it has fought against for decades. The situation has worsened following Assad’s recent removal from power, which has left Kurdish factions vulnerable and seeking to maintain their political influence amid rising hostilities. The complexity of international alliances and the implications of US military support to the SDF complicate Turkey’s security strategies, highlighting the intricate relationships within the region and the influence of foreign powers in the ongoing conflict.

In summary, Turkey remains resolute in its stance regarding security threats from Kurdish groups in Syria, asserting that it will take all necessary actions to protect its interests. With the Syrian government facing challenges in addressing these security concerns, the potential for military engagement has increased. Additionally, the dynamics of US support for the SDF and the historical context of the PKK further complicate the situation, offering profound implications for regional stability and international relations.

Original Source: www.euractiv.com