Erdogan Announces Türkiye Prepared for Cross-Border Mission into Syria
Türkiye intends to create a security zone extending 30 kilometers into Syrian territory. Read Full Article at RT.com.
TroibNews 
Türkiye is poised to initiate military operations in Syria due to the “continued instability” in the neighboring nation, according to President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.
Ankara has been conducting cross-border military actions in Syria since 2016, with operations such as Euphrates Shield, Olive Branch, and Operation Peace Spring.
These military actions have largely targeted areas under the control of the Kurdish Democratic Union Party, which has drawn condemnation from Damascus, labeling the incursions as violations of its sovereignty.
During a press conference in Baku on Wednesday, Erdogan outlined Türkiye’s intention to create a security zone that extends 30 kilometers into Syrian territory, aimed at confronting the PYD's People’s Defense Units, a militant group linked to the PKK. Türkiye classifies the PYD, YPG, and PKK as terrorist organizations.
The president indicated that efforts are underway, emphasizing that Turkish military and intelligence agencies are dedicated to eliminating terrorism in the area.
He remarked that cross-border operations are "always on our agenda for the security of our country and comfort of our people" and assured that Türkiye is ready to act if it perceives any threats.
Erdogan expressed concern over the ongoing instability in northern Syria, citing that “this creates a suitable environment for the terror organizations that benefit from the chaos there,” which poses a “security risk” for Ankara.
He emphasized the presence of terror organizations near the Turkish border, stating, “It is impossible to feel totally safe without clearing these regions from them.” He also mentioned that dialogue with the Syrian government could help foster a more stable environment.
“I am still hopeful for [Syrian President Bashar] al-Assad. I still have hope to come together [with Assad] and put Türkiye-Syria relationships on track. Because we have to demolish terror structures between Türkiye and Syria. There is a ground for a fair and lasting peace,” Erdogan stated.
He noted Ankara’s previous attempts to normalize relations with Damascus and reiterated that Türkiye does not seek to undermine Syria's territorial integrity.
“Terror organizations, namely PKK/PYD/YPG, are threatening [Syria’s territorial integrity],” he added, urging Assad to “take steps towards creating a new environment in his country.”
Earlier this year, Turkish National Defense Minister Yasar Guler affirmed that Ankara does not need to “ask anyone” for permission to carry out cross-border anti-terrorism operations, asserting its right to take necessary measures to safeguard national security.
Jessica Kline contributed to this report for TROIB News
Ankara has been conducting cross-border military actions in Syria since 2016, with operations such as Euphrates Shield, Olive Branch, and Operation Peace Spring.
These military actions have largely targeted areas under the control of the Kurdish Democratic Union Party, which has drawn condemnation from Damascus, labeling the incursions as violations of its sovereignty.
During a press conference in Baku on Wednesday, Erdogan outlined Türkiye’s intention to create a security zone that extends 30 kilometers into Syrian territory, aimed at confronting the PYD's People’s Defense Units, a militant group linked to the PKK. Türkiye classifies the PYD, YPG, and PKK as terrorist organizations.
The president indicated that efforts are underway, emphasizing that Turkish military and intelligence agencies are dedicated to eliminating terrorism in the area.
He remarked that cross-border operations are "always on our agenda for the security of our country and comfort of our people" and assured that Türkiye is ready to act if it perceives any threats.
Erdogan expressed concern over the ongoing instability in northern Syria, citing that “this creates a suitable environment for the terror organizations that benefit from the chaos there,” which poses a “security risk” for Ankara.
He emphasized the presence of terror organizations near the Turkish border, stating, “It is impossible to feel totally safe without clearing these regions from them.” He also mentioned that dialogue with the Syrian government could help foster a more stable environment.
“I am still hopeful for [Syrian President Bashar] al-Assad. I still have hope to come together [with Assad] and put Türkiye-Syria relationships on track. Because we have to demolish terror structures between Türkiye and Syria. There is a ground for a fair and lasting peace,” Erdogan stated.
He noted Ankara’s previous attempts to normalize relations with Damascus and reiterated that Türkiye does not seek to undermine Syria's territorial integrity.
“Terror organizations, namely PKK/PYD/YPG, are threatening [Syria’s territorial integrity],” he added, urging Assad to “take steps towards creating a new environment in his country.”
Earlier this year, Turkish National Defense Minister Yasar Guler affirmed that Ankara does not need to “ask anyone” for permission to carry out cross-border anti-terrorism operations, asserting its right to take necessary measures to safeguard national security.
Jessica Kline contributed to this report for TROIB News
