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Ankara’s direct talks with Syrian Kurds

A government spokesperson this week stopped short of denying reports of secret talks between Ankara and the Pentagon-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF).

Kurdish Syrians demonstrate in the Syrian eastern city of Qamishli to demand the release of the jailed founder of the Kurdistan Workers Party, Abdullah Ocalan, in Turkey, on May 29, 2025.

Greetings from a sunny Ankara.

The sun’s out across most of Turkey for the Eid holiday. Temperatures are finally rising faster than prices as inflation cooled more than expected this week, offering a rare breather. Politics isn’t slowing down though: The main opposition leader is now facing two investigations. The biggest stir, meanwhile, came on the diplomatic front after Turkish officials stopped short of denying direct talks between Ankara and the Syrian Democratic Forces.

Wishing you a fabulous weekend and a joyful Eid, if you’re celebrating,

Ezgi  (Follow me on X: @ezgi_akin)

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