Turkey’s Stark Ultimatum: Grant Kurdish Rights, But Crush Armed Groups

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – Turkey has made it clear that no compromises have been made with the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) regarding their aspirations for autonomy or self-governance in Syria, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan stated on Friday.

Speaking to the Turkish news channel TV100, Fidan emphasized that Ankara does not believe any concessions have been granted to the SDF, which is led by the PKK/YPG, a group designated as a terrorist organization by Turkey, the United States, and the European Union.

“It is essential for all armed elements involved in terror acts in Syria to be excluded from the equation, and for all populations to return to normal life,” Fidan asserted.

Turkey has long regarded the YPG/PYD, which operates under the SDF banner, as an extension of the PKK, a group that has waged a four-decade-long insurgency against Ankara, resulting in more than 40,000 deaths, including civilians.

Turkey Urges Syrian Government to Grant Kurdish Rights

Despite its strong opposition to the SDF, Turkey has called on the Syrian government to ensure the rights of Kurdish communities in Syria.

“Our advice to the new Syrian administration is to grant Syrian Kurds their rights,” Fidan said. “This is very important for both Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and Türkiye.”

However, he underscored that this should not come at the expense of maintaining territorial integrity, adding that armed groups must lay down their weapons and relinquish control to the state.

Turkey Calls for the Dissolution of the PKK

Fidan also addressed a recent call by Abdullah Öcalan, the imprisoned leader of the PKK, who on Feb. 27 urged the group to dissolve itself. The Turkish foreign minister stressed that this should be seen as a historic opportunity to end the conflict.

“The PKK should take this call as a basis and initiate a process to disband itself,” he said. “If they seize this window of opportunity, it will be an opening for Türkiye and the region. If others sway their mind, that’s up to them; we’re ready for any scenario.”

Turkey Closely Monitoring Developments in Syria

Discussing the broader situation in Syria, Fidan acknowledged ongoing discussions regarding an agreement that could potentially integrate the SDF into Syrian state institutions. He warned, however, that such moves must be carefully monitored to prevent unintended consequences.

"Especially in matters related to the terror group—implicitly referring to the YPG—everything can be on the agenda, including provocations and future plots," Fidan cautioned. “If an agreement is signed in good faith, let it be implemented. However, there may be hidden dangers, and Türkiye is watching closely.”

Fidan confirmed that Turkey had raised its concerns during his recent visit to Damascus, emphasizing that the future of Syria’s Kurds should be secured without strengthening terrorist elements.

US-Turkey Tensions Over PKK/YPG Support

A significant point of contention between Turkey and the United States remains Washington’s support for the PKK/YPG. Fidan stressed that if the US were to sever ties with the group, one of the primary diplomatic challenges between Ankara and Washington would be resolved.

“The biggest problem for us with the US military presence is the cooperation with the PKK and YPG and the support they provide,” he said. “This false support gives the PKK/YPG unrealistic hopes. However, more rational, positive lives are possible. I hope America will do the right thing.”

Fidan called for a rational approach in US-Turkey relations, advocating for a more structural and systematic engagement beyond traditional alliances such as NATO and the EU.

Turkey’s Position: Security First

Reaffirming Ankara’s stance, Fidan concluded that Turkey remains steadfast in protecting its national security and ensuring that no terrorist entity establishes a foothold along its borders.

“We are here to protect the security and interests of our nation,” he declared.