Erdogan, Trump Discuss SDF Integration into Syrian Army on NATO Summit Sidelines
Erdogan told Trump Syria is fighting ISIS with Turkish support. He urged SDF integration into Syria’s army to end U.S. backing, warning of delays. Discussed sanctions, troops, and Israeli strikes.
By Ahora Qadi
ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan held extensive talks with U.S. President Donald Trump on the evolving situation in Syria, with a particular focus on the integration of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) into the new Syrian army, according to Turkish sources cited by pro-government media outlets.
The meeting took place early Wednesday on the sidelines of the NATO summit in The Netherlands, where both leaders exchanged views on regional developments, ongoing counterterrorism efforts, and the future of U.S. support for the SDF.
SDF Integration and Counterterrorism Commitments
According to Asharq al-Awsat, citing sources close to the Turkish president, Erdogan emphasized to Trump that Damascus remains committed to combating all terrorist organizations, including ISIS, and that Turkey continues to support the Syrian administration in this effort.
Highlighting the March agreement between the Syrian transitional government and the SDF, Erdogan reportedly asserted that following the integration of SDF units into the Syrian national army, the continuation of U.S. support would no longer be necessary. He added that, under this new arrangement, the Syrian administration—with backing from Turkey—would assume control over detention facilities housing ISIS fighters and their families.
Turkish Concerns Over SDF Commitments
Erdogan reiterated longstanding accusations that the SDF, dominated by the Kurdish People’s Protection Units (YPG), has delayed the implementation of the agreement signed by its commander Mazloum Abdi and Syria’s interim president Ahmad al-Shara. Erdogan warned that the SDF would bear the consequences of any failure to fulfill its obligations, stating that Ankara is closely monitoring the situation.
Turkey has consistently demanded the dissolution of the YPG—designated a terrorist group by Ankara—alongside the departure of all foreign fighters from Syria. Ankara insists that only Syrian elements of the SDF should be incorporated into the national army.
Divergence with U.S. Policy
Washington, however, maintains its support for the SDF, describing it as a key ally in the fight against ISIS. While Erdogan seeks to phase out American assistance to the Kurdish-led force, the U.S. has yet to signal any change in its stance.
Broader Agenda: Sanctions, U.S. Troop Presence, and Israeli Airstrikes
In addition to the SDF file, Erdogan and Trump reportedly discussed the steps being taken toward lifting U.S. sanctions on Syria, the future of American military deployments in the country, and ongoing Israeli airstrikes on Syrian territory. Erdogan urged a halt to such attacks and called for coordinated efforts to preserve Syria’s territorial integrity and sovereignty.
Erdogan's Message to the UK
Separately, Erdogan met with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Wednesday during the NATO summit, where he reiterated Ankara’s commitment to Syria’s stability. Erdogan affirmed that Turkey will continue to support Syria’s political unity and territorial integrity as part of its broader efforts to stabilize the region.
