SDF’s Kobane says Ankara trip in the works

Mazlum Kobane says he could travel to Turkey and potentially meet jailed PKK leader Abdullah Ocalan.

Amberin Zaman
Amberin Zaman
May 15, 2026
Mazloum Kobane, commander-in-chief of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), speaks during the pan-Kurdish "Unity and Consensus" conference in Qamishli in northeastern Syria on April 26, 2025.

Welcome back to AL-MONITOR Turkey. 

We had another busy week, and I am proud to say our coverage stood out. Ezgi Akin’s scoop in February on the resumption of direct trade to Armenia was formally confirmed by Turkish officials this week. Things appear to be finally moving with Yerevan, and none too soon. I wish one could say the same of the Kurdish peace process. 

Thanks for reading,

Amberin 

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