Istanbul: Turkey has extended a hand of support to Syria’s new administration, expressing readiness to provide military training if requested, according to Turkish Defense Minister Yasar Guler. This comes after the recent overthrow of President Bashar al-Assad, ending a 13-year civil war.
Constructive Engagement with Syria’s New Leadership
Following the change in power, Syria’s new leadership has pledged to respect governmental institutions and international organizations, signaling a commitment to stability. Minister Guler emphasized the importance of giving the new administration a chance to govern and demonstrate its intentions.
Turkey, a NATO member, has a history of military cooperation with various nations and remains open to similar agreements with Syria’s new leadership.
Turkey’s Military Role in Northern Syria
Since 2016, Turkey has conducted four military operations in northern Syria, citing national security threats, particularly from the Kurdish YPG militia. Turkish forces are currently stationed in several Syrian towns, including Afrin, Azez, and Jarablus in the northwest, as well as Ras al-Ain and Tel Abyad in the northeast.
Minister Guler mentioned that Turkey’s military presence in Syria could be reassessed in coordination with the new Syrian administration when conditions allow.
Eliminating Terrorist Threats
Turkey’s primary concern remains the elimination of the YPG, which it views as an extension of the outlawed PKK. The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), led by the YPG, are a key US ally in the fight against ISIS but are considered a terrorist organization by Ankara.
Minister Guler reiterated Turkey’s stance that PKK/YPG militants will eventually be eradicated, either through disarmament or expulsion from Syria. He also dismissed the US assertion of an ISIS resurgence, asserting that Turkey has not observed significant ISIS activity in recent years.
Turkey’s Relations with Russia in Syria
Addressing the role of Russia, a long-standing ally of the Assad regime, Minister Guler noted that Russia appears to be consolidating its military presence at its bases in Latakia and Tartous rather than withdrawing from Syria. He expressed skepticism about a complete Russian exit from the region.
A Path Forward
Turkey’s proactive approach highlights its strategic interest in Syria’s stability and the region’s security. By offering military training and maintaining open dialogue, Turkey aims to influence Syria’s transition period constructively while addressing its national security priorities.
As the situation unfolds, the international community will watch closely to see how cooperation between Syria’s new administration, Turkey, and other regional players evolves in shaping the country’s future.
