Presidential Spokesperson İbrahim Kalın outlined Ankara’s expectation that the United States and Russia will meet their commitments to guarantee security along the Syrian border, a point he stressed during a national broadcast on the NTV channel. He framed these assurances as essential to stabilizing the region and preventing any gaps that could be exploited by hostile entities, emphasizing that Turkey will continue its vigilance until both the national frontier and the wider border region are safeguarded against threats.
Kalın’s remarks came as a clear signal that Turkey’s campaign against violent elements operating near and across its borders remains a central priority for the government. He described the ongoing fight as a sustained effort to neutralize terrorist threats and to build a secure buffer zone that can support lawful border management, humanitarian access, and regional stability. In his view, this mission intertwines with Turkey’s broader security strategy, which aims to deter cross-border violence and protect civilians while upholding the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Following those comments, the Minister of National Defense Hulusi Akar underscored the national resolve to conduct counter-terrorism operations not only within Turkey’s own territory but also in applicable foreign theaters. He stated that the operations would be conducted with precision and at strategic moments, so as not to allow any space for terrorist formations to take root near southern Turkish borders. Akar reiterated that the Turkish Armed Forces act to defend the country’s fundamental rights and interests, and that all actions are calibrated to ensure maximal effectiveness with minimum disruption to civilian life and regional stability.
Regarding the possibility of a ground operation in Syria, Akar addressed Ankara’s plans directly, noting that Turkey views the PKK and its affiliates as a persistent security challenge that must be confronted with lawful and proportionate means. He argued that any potential ground deployment would be timed carefully, coordinated with international partners where appropriate, and executed in a manner that aligns with Turkey’s national security imperatives while minimizing unintended consequences for civilians and neighboring states. The defense chief stressed that the ultimate objective remains the protection of Turkish rights and interests, achieved through careful planning, disciplined execution, and clear operational readiness.