Erdoğan hails sanctions easing on Syria as diplomatic win, urges focus on YPG threat

President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has said that the lifting of sanctions on Syria is a significant step towards stabilising the country, adding that it also reflects the effectiveness of Türkiye’s diplomatic efforts.

Speaking to journalists on board his flight back from Hungary, Erdoğan underlined the importance of supporting Syria’s recovery and urged Damascus not to lose focus on the threat posed by the YPG, which Türkiye considers a terrorist organisation, Caliber.Az reports per Turkish media.

“It is vital that the authorities in Damascus do not divert attention from this issue,” he said, reiterating Ankara’s longstanding concerns about Kurdish militia presence near its borders.

On US-Türkiye relations, Erdoğan described his rapport with US President Donald Trump in favourable terms.

“Trump holds a very positive view of Türkiye, and we share the same sentiment. Our relationship is built on mutual respect and sincerity,” he said, adding that a potential visit to the United States could include a meeting with Trump.

Turning to energy matters, Erdoğan outlined plans to expand Türkiye’s exploration capabilities. He revealed that Türkiye is in the process of acquiring additional seismic survey vessels to conduct research not only in the Black Sea but also in other global regions.

Meanwhile, the Turkish leader also addressed the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, describing it as a test of the international system’s moral compass. He criticised Western institutions for failing to respond adequately.

“Unfortunately, Western structures have failed the Gaza test,” Erdoğan said.

“History will judge those who turned away. Türkiye will continue to stand for humanity and human dignity.”

He further noted that Israel’s growing international isolation—particularly over its obstruction of humanitarian aid—was becoming increasingly evident, even among European nations. “There is now, albeit belatedly, an awakening in Europe regarding Israel’s actions,” he added.

By Aghakazim Guliyev