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Cyprus’ Foreign Minister, Constantinos Kombos, and the European Commission President, Ursula von der Leyen, have both condemned Turkey’s plans for a large-scale military operation in northern Syria, with growing fears that such actions could destabilize the region further.
In an interview with Sky News, Kombos expressed concern about Turkey’s influence in Syria, stressing that it could lead to "even worse situations" if not carefully managed. "We need to ensure that the influence Turkey is trying to claim in Syria will not create even worse situations," he said, referencing the sensitive dynamics between Turkey and the Kurdish populations in the region. Kombos emphasized the importance of maintaining stability and balance in the area, noting the ongoing attacks on the Kurds and the volatile situation in Syria, which requires cautious handling.
Kombos also addressed the larger geopolitical context, noting that any attempts to create a “homeland” for the Kurds should be handled in a way that supports both their self-determination and Syria's overall stability. "The stability of the region depends on the Kurds being able to exercise their right to self-determination in a way that is constructive to Syria and to the whole region," he added, calling on the international community to ensure a balanced approach that protects minority rights.
'We need to make sure the influence Turkey is trying to assert in Syria is not going to make the situation worse than it already is,' says Cyprus Foreign Minister @ckombos on Turkey's involvement in Syria.https://t.co/PAiZ4D1jU3
— Sky News (@SkyNews) December 17, 2024
Sky 501, Virgin 602, Freeview 233 and YouTube pic.twitter.com/gUOdANtwSR
Meanwhile, in a parallel development, Ursula von der Leyen met with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan in Ankara to discuss Turkey’s ongoing plans in Syria and its strained relationship with the EU. Von der Leyen acknowledged Turkey’s "legitimate security concerns" but raised significant issues regarding Turkey's escalating military presence near Kurdish-controlled areas in Syria. Following her discussions with Erdoğan, she stated that the EU would continue diplomatic engagement with Syria’s new political leadership but emphasized that efforts must avoid exacerbating security challenges in the region.
Von der Leyen also noted that the EU had committed to additional financial aid to Syria and Turkish refugees, with a €1 billion package to address humanitarian needs and prepare for the voluntary return of refugees. However, she remained firm in her stance that all returns must be voluntary and safe, underlining the importance of international cooperation to prevent forced returns.
As both leaders called for caution, it is clear that Turkey’s military operation and its broader ambitions in Syria have sparked significant diplomatic tensions. Cyprus and the EU are watching closely, wary of the broader implications for regional stability and security.
With information from CNA and kathimerini.gr
