Syria Withdrawal Sparks Political Rift in Washington

Tags: Currents Syria, Trump, Turkey, World News

Currents News Staff

A political rift has opened in the nation’s capital over President Trump’s decision to pull back American forces in Syria, allowing Turkey to carry out a lethal military invasion that’s let ISIS fighters run free.

“Why are we protecting Syria’s land? Assad’s not a friend of ours. Why are we protecting their land?,” said Trump as he stuck to his guns when it comes to his decision to pull American forces in Syria.

Trump released the letter he sent to Turkish President Erdogan, warning him: “Don’t be a tough guy. Don’t be a fool!” And also saying: “Let’s work out a good deal!”

Now, politicians, even usually close allies of President Trump’s, are now sparring with him over Syria.

“Any commander in chief who gives territory back to the enemy that was seized by blood of our allies and soldiers is doing a great disservice to the military,” said Sen. Lindsey Graham.

President Donald Trump responding, “Lindsey Graham would like to stay in the Middle East for the next thousand years.”

A resurgence of ISIS is now the major concern of politicians on both sides of the aisle.

Sen. Chuck Schumer said, “Why did we spend a decade, billions of dollars and lost lives in trying to curtail ISIS if on a phone call, on a whim, the President is going to undo all of that.”

Sen. Lindsey Graham added, “If you don’t believe ISIS is going to come our way, you’re mistaken.”

Meanwhile, others disagree.

Rep. Kevin McCarthy said, “This is something that the President ran upon. Making sure that we’re not having our troops all around the world.”

Rep. Michael McCaul added, “The President wants other nations to share the burden and the cost in the war on terror.”

Vice President Pence and Secretary of State Mike Pompeo are set to meet with Turkish President Erdogan to negotiate a cease-fire in their military invasion of Syria Thursday.