Pentagon warns of "fragile" situation in Syria amid regional security talks

The Pentagon has described the situation in Syria as "fragile" amid ongoing tensions over US support for the PKK/YPG-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF).

Talks between the US and Türkiye are continuing, with a focus on regional security and the stability of Syria, Caliber.Az reports via Turkish media.

Major General Patrick Ryder, Pentagon spokesperson, stressed that communication with Türkiye remains open, especially regarding Syria's situation following the ouster of President Bashar Assad. He emphasized the importance of ensuring the Syrian people experience security and stability.

"Türkiye is a highly valued NATO ally, and we continue to maintain open lines of communication on the situation in Syria, as well as on broader regional security concerns like ISIS," Ryder told reporters. "I'm confident that we'll continue to have ongoing discussions with Türkiye and other regional partners."

The US has relied on the SDF in its efforts to counter ISIS in Syria, but the partnership has strained relations between the two NATO allies, as the SDF is led by the YPG, the Syrian offshoot of the PKK, a group designated as a terrorist organization by both the US and Türkiye.

In response to a question from Anadolu, Ryder acknowledged the fragility of the current situation in Syria, particularly in the aftermath of Assad's regime. "US forces have been working closely with the SDF for years on defeating ISIS, and that continues to be our primary focus," he said.

"We all have a vested interest in ensuring ISIS does not regroup or resume its previous activities."

To recap, the ceasefire between Türkiye and the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) around the northern Syrian city of Manbij has been extended until the end of the week, US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller announced on December 17.

The initial truce, brokered by Washington last week, had expired, but efforts to prolong it are ongoing. "We continue to engage with the SDF and Türkiye about a path forward," Miller said, emphasizing Washington's aim to prevent any party from exploiting the instability in Syria for narrow interests.

SDF commander Mazloum Abdi said the group is ready to propose a demilitarized zone in Kobani, with security forces redeployed under US supervision. The proposal, outlined on X, seeks to address Türkiye’s security concerns while ensuring long-term stability in the region.

By Aghakazim Guliyev