Speaking to reporters on Thursday 18 January, Turkey’s presidential spokesman stated that the steps taken by the Turkish administration in order to protect its national security are “definitely” not a move against Syrian Kurds.
Kalin stated: “I want to underline once more that the steps Turkey takes towards protecting its own national security in Afrin, Manbij, Jarabulus or in other places [in Syria] are definitely not a move against Syrian Kurds.”
The emphasis comes as an operation in Afrin – a region bordering Turkey’s Hatay and Kilis provinces – is widely expected in the upcoming days.
Turkey intends to clean Afrin from the PKK/PYD – which has remained a major national security threat to the country.
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Kalin also commented on the mis-understanding surrounding the “Border Security Force” announced by spokesman for the Combined Joint Task Force – Operation Inherent Resolve (OIR) Col. Ryan Dillon.
The presidential spokesman stated that U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson said: “There will not be a force like that, it was expressed incorrectly. A false statement was made and wrong people spoke.”
“Now, in plain words, we will be following this closely,” Kalin said.
Before finishing his words, Ibrahim Kalin also re-emphasized that Turkey will oppose the legitimization of U.S. support to the PKK/PYD, YPG or SDF.