Turkey has firmly denied claims made by the United States that it has agreed to a ceasefire with the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) in northern Syria.

Turkish officials have emphasized their continued commitment to military operations against the Kurdish-led forces, further escalating tensions in the region.

The Disputed Ceasefire Claims

The controversy began when US officials announced that a ceasefire had been reached between Turkey and the SDF. However, Ankara quickly rejected these assertions. Turkish-backed forces, including the Syrian National Army (SNA), remain actively engaged in clearing areas controlled by the SDF, which Turkey considers a direct threat to its national security.

Turkey’s Longstanding Opposition to the YPG

At the heart of Turkey’s stance lies its deep-seated opposition to the YPG, the dominant faction within the SDF. Turkey views the YPG as the Syrian offshoot of the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK), a group it has fought for over four decades and considers a terrorist organization. Ankara has consistently argued that many YPG leaders are former PKK commanders and has vehemently opposed US support for the group.

Turkey’s leadership has frequently reiterated its position that “one terrorist group cannot be used to fight another,” criticizing the US for its reliance on the YPG in the battle against ISIS and subsequent efforts to guard ISIS prisoners.

US-Turkey Tensions Over Kurdish Forces

The United States has long regarded the SDF, led by the YPG, as a key ally in the fight against ISIS. The group has not only played a crucial role in defeating ISIS but also in maintaining security over territories previously held by the extremist group. However, this collaboration has become a major source of contention between Ankara and Washington, further straining their diplomatic ties.

Turkey’s Military Operations in Northern Syria

Turkey has repeatedly stated that it will not tolerate the creation of a semi- or fully-autonomous Kurdish entity near its southern border. To this end, Turkish-backed forces, such as the Syrian National Army, have been conducting operations to dismantle YPG strongholds in northern Syria. Ankara has stressed that these efforts will continue, with or without the involvement of Turkish troops. This approach, officials claim, limits the need for direct Turkish military intervention in the region.

Call for Syrian Leadership

In a recent statement, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan emphasized that the issue should be addressed by the Syrian administration. According to Fidan, resolving the conflict through Syrian leadership would reduce the necessity for Turkish involvement and pave the way for a more sustainable solution to the ongoing crisis.

Turkey’s Unyielding Stance

Turkey remains resolute in its position, rejecting any form of dialogue or agreement with the YPG or its affiliates. Officials have made it clear that a ceasefire is not an option and that Ankara will continue its efforts to eliminate what it perceives as terrorist threats along its border.

Turkey’s denial of a ceasefire highlights the ongoing complexities of the Syrian conflict and the fragile nature of international alliances in the region. As Ankara pursues its objectives, tensions with the United States and other stakeholders are likely to persist, underscoring the broader geopolitical challenges that define this turbulent landscape.