Turkey Opposes French Military Presence on Syrian Border

Turkey has rejected a proposal for French troops to deploy along its Syrian border to aid the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan criticized European countries for acting under US influence while pursuing their agendas. Turkey is prepared for potential military action against the SDF unless foreign fighters depart Syria. Fidan questioned France’s commitment to an independent role in the region.

Turkey has vocally objected to the potential deployment of French troops along its border with Syria, which aims to create a secure zone to alleviate tensions with the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan stated that smaller European nations are pursuing their interests under the US’s military umbrella, but this does not result in genuine benefits for themselves or the broader region. Fidan emphasized Turkey’s unwillingness to engage with countries that attempt to leverage American power to advance their agendas.

Ankara is poised for a possible cross-border offensive into northeastern Syria targeting the Kurdish YPG militia, part of the SDF, unless it adheres to Turkey’s demands. Fidan reiterated the expectation that foreign fighters in the SDF, including members of the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK), which Turkey designates as a terrorist organization, must leave Syrian territory.

Although the French government has not officially suggested securing the Turkish-Syrian border, President Emmanuel Macron recently affirmed France’s commitment to the SDF. In response, Ilham Ahmed, co-chair of foreign affairs for the Kurdish administration in northern Syria, stated a willingness for a military coalition involving the United States and France to ensure border security. Nevertheless, Turkish officials have also rejected an SDF proposal to demilitarize Kobane under US oversight.

Fidan stressed that Turkey would consider France’s stance on Syria only if it demonstrated an independent operational presence—the establishment of military bases, territory holding, and conducting military operations without US support. Furthermore, he criticized France for failing to repatriate citizens classified as terrorists held in Syria, while simultaneously supporting the SDF, which is perceived as complicit in harboring those detainees.

The ongoing geopolitical dynamics in Syria are characterized by the complex interplay of various factions, including the Turkish government, Kurdish forces, and international coalitions. Turkey has long opposed the SDF, viewing it as an affiliate of the PKK, a group involved in a long-standing insurgency against the Turkish state. The emergence of potential French military involvement points to broader European interest in the situation, particularly regarding the fight against the Islamic State and the management of aftereffects stemming from the Syrian civil war. The region remains fragile, as competing interests among local and international actors continue to shape the environment.

In summary, Turkey firmly opposes any plans for French troops on its Syrian border, viewing the SDF as a terrorist organization and asserting that any foreign presence must not be under the auspices of the United States. The Turkish government is prepared to take military action against Kurdish militias should they not meet its requests. Ultimately, Turkey urges France to take responsibility for its citizens involved in terrorism and to reconsider its support for the SDF.

Original Source: www.middleeasteye.net