Turkish FM doubts US commitment to PKK issue amid regional tensions

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan expressed concerns over the US administration's approach to key regional issues, particularly in Syria and the PKK (Kurdistan Workers' Party) situation.

Fidan emphasized that, in his view, the fate of the PKK is not a significant concern for the US, and similarly, this issue ranks low on Washington's priorities, Caliber.Az reports via Turkish media.

Fidan highlighted that the new US administration is currently reassessing key dossiers, including Syria, noting that Türkiye has already taken diplomatic steps in anticipation of these changes.

“There are camps and prisons. I think the issue of what will happen to the PKK is the last concern of the US,” he stated, adding that the Trump administration had shown more interest in this matter during its tenure. Despite this, Türkiye continues its diplomatic efforts through ongoing conversations, recommendations, and direct contacts with relevant parties.

The Turkish foreign minister also addressed the role of Iraq in combating the PKK, calling for greater sensitivity from the Iraqi government in addressing the presence of the terrorist organization. Fidan reiterated Türkiye’s expectation that the Sinjar region, which has been a hotspot for PKK activities, should be cleared of militants.

Fidan noted that while Türkiye has publicly called for the dissolution of the PKK, there has been no specific timeline given for this to occur. Nevertheless, he underscored Türkiye’s continued efforts to press for action and emphasized that the Turkish state remains steadfast in safeguarding its security and interests. “We will not leave our affairs and security to others,” Fidan said, affirming that Türkiye’s intelligence and military operations against the PKK will persist.

On the subject of the agreement signed on March 10 between Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa and Farhad Abdi Shaheen, leader of the YPG/PKK in the country, Fidan remarked that the Syrian government remains in a state of flux. Given the political transition in Syria, Fidan stated that it is unrealistic to expect rapid resolutions to all issues.

By Vafa Guliyeva