Putin’s next act: Syrian-Turkish rapprochement

The Russian president still needs the United States to keep the pace, and the peace, in Syria.

United Arab Emirates

Russia, Turkey content with talks on Syria but fate of YPG still unclear

Russian and Turkish officials meet in Moscow following President Trump's decision to withdraw US forces from Syria, but make no public mention of what will happen in Manbij.

Syria

Intel: How the US exit has triggered a new scramble for influence in Syria

Syria

Turkey tests waters before next operation in Syria

Ankara will face numerous political and security risks if it moves too hastily in its pursuit of the YPG in Syria.

Iraq

Ankara provokes Iraqi government with plans against PKK

Turkish airstrikes against pro-PKK groups in Iraq's Kurdistan put the Iraqi government in a difficult situation, as it cannot eject Kurdish militias or stop Turkish intervention.

Iraq

Are Turkey, Syria squaring off in response to US decision?

The US announcement that it will pull its troops out of Syria has sparked serious reactions, with Syria repositioning its forces around Manbij and opposition fighters weighing what the outcome could mean for them.

Syria

Turkey sends top delegation to Russia to talk Syria

Ankara is looking to negotiate with Moscow over its proposed intervention in northern Syria.

Syria

Why Turkey's Kurdish strategy will remain ineffective

While making moves to crush the Kurds’ de facto self-rule in northern Syria, Turkey has targeted also the Makhmour refugee camp in Iraq, which, ironically, holds a mirror to Ankara’s failed Kurdish policies over the years.

Iraq

How Iran sees 'post-America' Syria

Rather than gloating, Iran has adopted a cautious approach to the US withdrawal from Syria as it examines whether and how it will impact Washington’s greater strategy to contain its regional role.

Syria

France becomes Turkey’s newest bugbear as Kurds court Macron

Now that US forces are withdrawing from Syria, Turkey has turned its ire to France, which could play a bridging role between the Kurds, Moscow and Washington that could upset Turkish plans.

Syria

Turkey’s youth unemployment reaches frightening level

Youth unemployment in Turkey has hit 21.6%, according to official figures, but beyond the formal definitions and methodologies, the actual situation on the ground is even more alarming.

Turkey

Istanbul residents opt for New Year's celebrations on water

Due to rising prices and security and sexual harassment concerns, a growing number of middle-class Turks will ring in the new year on the Bosporus.

Turkey