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James Jeffrey, the United States (US) Representative for Syria Engagement, answered the questions of diplomacy reporter Deniz Kilislioğlu on NTV news channel yesterday evening (February 12).
Expressing his support for "the presence and legitimate interests of Turkey in Idlib", Jeffrey said, "Turkish soldiers have the right of self-defense in Idlib."
Indicating that "he discussed NATO's allianece with Turkey", Jeffrey made the following remarks in brief:
'We support Turkey's presence, legitimate interests'
"We agree with you regarding the legal situation in Idlib. We support the presence and legitimate interests of Turkey in Idlib.
"Turkish soldiers have the right of self-defense in Idlib. We understand that Turkey strikes back to the regime forces.
"As a NATO ally, we are exploring how we can help. There should be shared intelligence over this, and equipment transfer is also of utmost importance. These continue to work well.
"We need to be more certain that our diplomatic approach is coordinated, because our powers are also present here.
"We want to find a diplomatic solution to this along with many countries. However, our issue today is Idlib.
'We have common geostrategic aims'
"The attitude of the US in Syria is not contradictory. YPG [People's Protection Units] has withdrawn from the Operation Peace Spring zone. We have sticked to the agreement with Turkey.
"We have common geostrategic aims in Syria and Libya, where coordination and the sharing of information with Turkey is very important.
"Russia and Iran have different aims in Syria. I do not think that a war will break out in the region. Turkey, US, Israel and Russia are acting very carefully." (EKN/SD)
