Turkey Urges France to Repatriate Jihadists

Turkey's Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan has emphasized the necessity for terrorist groups, particularly the Kurdish YPG militia, to disband for stability in Syria, warning that military action could follow if demands are unmet. During talks with U.S. Under Secretary of State John Bass, Turkey will reiterate its position that the U.S. must cease support for the YPG, which it considers an extension of the PKK, a group labeled as terrorist by Ankara and its NATO allies. Fidan urged France to repatriate its jihadist nationals held by the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), asserting that France's inaction jeopardizes Turkey's security. The discussions will also address the potential expansion of U.S. sanctions exemptions to aid Syria's reconstruction. Turkish officials have warned of a possible cross-border offensive into northeastern Syria if the YPG does not comply with demands to lay down arms. The new Syrian administration is reportedly prepared to confront the YPG, signaling a shift in regional dynamics following the ousting of the Assad regime.