Erdogan tells Putin Syria must not become source of regional instability
President Erdogan (L) shakes hands with Russian President Vladimir Putin (R) as they meet on the occasion of the BRICS Summit in Kazan, Russia on October 23, 2024. (AA Photo)
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan told Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday that Syria should not become a source of greater instability in the region.
The two leaders spoke over the phone about bilateral relations, regional and global issues, and the latest developments in Syria, where anti-regime forces recently seized control of Aleppo and advanced in other areas.
Erdogan reiterated Türkiye’s firm stance against the PKK terror group and its affiliates, who are trying to exploit the current situation in Syria. He emphasized that civilian harm must be avoided and stressed that Türkiye is working tirelessly to restore calm in the country, where civil war has persisted since 2011.
“Türkiye supports Syria’s territorial integrity and is committed to working toward a fair and lasting solution,” Erdogan said. “Diplomacy must be prioritized, and the Syrian regime must engage in the political process.”
Clashes broke out on Nov. 27 between forces loyal to Syrian President Bashar al-Assad and anti-regime groups in Aleppo’s western countryside, escalating the conflict after a period of relative calm.
In its 40-year terror campaign against Türkiye, the PKK—listed as a terrorist organization by Türkiye, the U.S., and EU – has been responsible for the deaths of over 40,000 people, including women, children, infants, and the elderly. The YPG is PKK’s Syrian offshoot.
