US warns SDF to adapt as Syria moves toward centralisation

Amid shifting dynamics in northern and eastern Syria, US diplomat William Roebuck has called on the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) to embrace compromise and adapt to changing conditions, as efforts continue to integrate the group into Syria’s national military structure.

Although the PKK has reportedly laid down arms as part of the “Türkiye Without Terrorists” initiative, the SDF — which maintains links to the Syrian wing of the YPG — has resisted similar moves. Roebuck, Vice President of the Arab Gulf States Institute, stressed the importance of the SDF’s cooperation with broader state structures in an interview with the Rudaw agency, Caliber.Az reports via Turkish media. 

He noted that while the SDF has been working effectively with the United States, it faces significant challenges ahead. According to Roebuck, the group must be integrated into the Syrian National Army, a process he described as difficult given the evolving conditions in Syria, particularly in the north and east. He stated that the SDF needs to adapt, and acknowledged that competent leadership within the group is already trying to navigate a new path forward.

Roebuck also reiterated the US position that issues in Syria should be resolved through coordination with the central government in Damascus. He expressed confidence that the US and other international allies of Syria would engage with Damascus to help improve the country’s security environment. According to him, collaboration with the central government is essential to preventing further violence.

Responding to a question on whether Syria is heading toward greater centralisation, Roebuck suggested that some change is indeed underway. He indicated that, at the military level, the system is likely to appear more centralised.

He argued that the political leadership in North and East Syria would need to make certain concessions, warning that maintaining the same political stances held several years ago was no longer realistic. In particular, he pointed out that the insistence on absolute decentralisation by some political factions in the region may be increasingly difficult to defend amid growing calls for compromise.

Roebuck also confirmed that American troops will eventually withdraw from Syria, though no definitive timeline has been set. He emphasised that in light of this, it is crucial for the SDF to strike the right balance and reach necessary compromises in order to secure its future role in Syria’s political and military landscape.

By Sabina Mammadli