President Donald Trump has threatened Turkey with economic “devastation” if it attacks Kurdish forces in northern Syriafollowing his planned withdrawal of US troops.
The direct warning by Mr Trump to a Nato ally further raised tensions in the region.
In a tweet, the US president wrote: “Starting the long overdue pullout from Syria while hitting the little remaining ISIS [Islamic State] territorial caliphate hard, and from many directions. Will attack again from existing nearby base if it reforms. Will devastate Turkey economically if they hit Kurds. Create 20 mile safe zone….”
Mr Trump also warned the Kurds not to inflame the situation adding: “Likewise, do not want the Kurds to provoke Turkey. Russia, Iran and Syria have been the biggest beneficiaries of the long term U.S. policy of destroying ISIS in Syria — natural enemies. We also benefit but it is now time to bring our troops back home. Stop the ENDLESS WARS!”
