Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan has accused the Kurdish YPG of undermining stability in Syria, describing the group as a “spoiler” that is not integrating into the political system and is attempting to delay progress.
Speaking at a press conference following a meeting with Syrian Foreign Minister Esad Hasan Sheybani, Fidan stated, “We are not blind to the YPG’s cunning in Syria. We are now witnessing developments that we find increasingly difficult to tolerate. We see that members of the organization have not left Syria, and they should not assume otherwise.”
Fidan also criticized external actors for exacerbating tensions in the region. Commenting on recent events in Sweida, he said, “One of the main actors behind this dark scenario is Israel.” He further underscored that Israel’s expansionist policies have a significant impact on Syria.
Highlighting the need for inclusive support for Syria’s ongoing process, Fidan said, “A new Syria must be one in which all peoples, beliefs, and cultures are preserved and can live together. Turkey has been providing guidance in this direction.” He emphasized that the Syrian government shares this vision, while acknowledging that implementing certain measures may take time.
On the YPG’s activities, Fidan warned that the group’s strategy of delay and disruption would not succeed. “The YPG’s position is not sustainable. Members coming from Turkey, Iraq, Iran, and Europe have not left Syria. They have not taken any measures to alleviate the threat posed by their armed presence. On the contrary, they are waiting to maximize advantage in any potential crisis,” he said.
Fidan reaffirmed Turkey’s close monitoring of the situation and stated that the YPG will not achieve its objectives. “In an environment where Turkey’s security concerns in Syria are not met, we cannot remain passive. President Erdoğan has repeatedly stressed this,” Fidan said.
He concluded with a direct appeal to the group: “My call to the YPG is to cease being a threat to Turkey and the region by releasing the terrorists they have gathered from around the world, and to take steps to disengage immediately.”
