US Not to Send Extra Troops to Syria for Joint Patrols with Turkey

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The US force posture in Syria remains unchanged, Pentagon spokesperson Sean Robertson told Turkey's state-run Anadolu Agency.

"While we are working to implement the President's direction to withdraw troops from Syria in a deliberate and coordinated manner, force levels will be dictated by conditions on the ground," Robertson said.

Details regarding the numbers or timelines would not be discussed "for security reasons," he added.

The New York Times reported yesterday (September 12) that the Pentagon is poised to send nearly 150 troops to northeastern Syria "to conduct ground patrols with Turkish forces."

Referring to the formation of a safe zone along the border with Turkey in Syria, Robertson remarked, "The United States has taken steps to implement the provisions of the security mechanism rapidly and in some cases ahead of schedule."

"We are committed to working closely with our Turkish Ally precisely to enhance our cooperation, coordination, and consultation," he added.

On August 7, military officials from Turkey and the US agreed to set up a "safe zone" in northern Syria and develop a "peace corridor" to facilitate the movement of displaced Syrians who want to return home. They also agreed to establish a joint operations center. Turkey and the US conducted the first joint patrol last week.

The agreement also envisaged setting up necessary security measures to address Turkey's concerns, including clearing the zone of the People's Protection Units (YPG), a US ally in the fight against ISIS. (PT/VK)

Source: AA