Erdogan Claims Turkey Can Eliminate Terrorism in Syria

In a recent address, Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan declared Turkey's readiness to eliminate all terrorist groups in Syria, including the Kurdish YPG militia and Islamic State fighters. He urged foreign nations to withdraw their involvement, emphasizing that Turkey, alongside its Syrian allies, possesses the capability to handle the situation independently. Erdogan specifically criticized the U.S. for its support of the YPG, labeling it as the principal issue in Syria and asserting that the group must disarm to avoid military action. He highlighted Turkey's commitment to ensuring the safety of Kurds in Syria, countering claims that the YPG plays a vital role in combating the Islamic State. The comments come in the wake of the recent changes in Syrian leadership following Bashar al-Assad's ousting, which has escalated tensions in the region. Erdogan's stance reflects Turkey's long-standing position on the YPG, which it considers a terrorist organization linked to the PKK.