Ankara to Moscow: Turkey Backs SDF Integration into Syria’s National Defense
Erdogan’s remarks signal Turkey’s endorsement of an initiative aimed at dissolving the autonomous military structure of the SDF and merging it under the centralized command of the Syrian state.
By Ahora Qadi
ERBIL (Kurdistan 24) – Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan reaffirmed Turkey’s support for the reintegration of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) into Syria’s national defense structure during a phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday.
According to the Turkish Presidency’s Directorate of Communications, Erdogan and Putin discussed bilateral relations, as well as pressing regional and global developments. The two leaders emphasized the importance of coordination between Ankara and Moscow to maintain stability in Syria.
The state-run Anadolu Agency (AA) reported that Erdogan stressed the necessity of continued Turkish-Russian collaboration to ensure security and prevent further fragmentation in Syria. “Turkey attaches great importance to coordinated efforts with Russia to preserve Syria’s territorial integrity and counter any attempts to fuel ethnic and sectarian conflicts,” Erdogan stated.
SDF Reintegration: A Strategic Move for Syria’s Stability
Addressing the future of the SDF, Erdogan stated: “Turkey supports the reintegration of the Syrian Democratic Forces into Syria’s national defense system. This step is crucial for the country’s long-term stability.”
Erdogan’s remarks signal Turkey’s endorsement of an initiative aimed at dissolving the autonomous military structure of the SDF and merging it under the centralized command of the Syrian state. While the specifics of this process remain unclear, the move aligns with recent diplomatic efforts to normalize relations between Ankara and Damascus.
Turkey’s Role in Peace Talks Between Russia and Ukraine
The discussion also covered the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine. Erdogan reaffirmed Turkey’s commitment to closely monitoring and supporting diplomatic initiatives aimed at ending the conflict. He reiterated Turkey’s readiness to facilitate peace negotiations between Moscow and Kyiv.
Black Sea Security and Maritime Trade
Erdogan further emphasized Turkey’s commitment to safeguarding commercial maritime routes in the Black Sea. “Measures taken to ensure the security of commercial shipping lanes will contribute to regional stability and the peace process,” he noted, underscoring Turkey’s role in preventing the escalation of tensions in the strategic waterway.
Diplomatic Implications
Erdogan’s endorsement of the SDF’s reintegration into Syria’s national defense system marks a notable shift in Ankara’s stance, as Turkey has long viewed the Kurdish-led forces as a threat to its national security. While the implications of this policy remain to be seen, the move suggests a recalibration of Turkey’s approach to the Syrian conflict, potentially opening avenues for further diplomatic engagements.
