Currents News Staff
Russia is now joining Syrian government troops near the Syria-Turkey border as Turkey continues military strikes in the region.
Moscow continues to expand its influence there following President Trump’s highly criticized decision to withdraw U.S. troops from the area last week. “Turkey, Syria — let them take care of it,” said Trump.
The Kurdish-led fighters in northern Syria were a key U.S. ally in the fight against ISIS.
With the U.S. departure, the Kurds have turned to Russia and the Syrian regime of Bashar al-Assad for help.
“We knew it was going to happen when the United States pulled forces out of northern Syria that the only winners were going to be Russia, Iran and the barbaric Assad regime,” said Democratic Representative Anthony Brown, Vice Chair of the House Armed Services Committee.
Fear and heartbreak consuming the once relatively peaceful part of Syria as the humanitarian crisis grows amidst another looming crisis: of 10,000-plus ISIS prisoners held throughout northern Syria, some have already escaped amidst the fighting.
Turkey is still pushing further into Syria despite international pressure, claiming factions there as threats to their nation.
The White House announced sanctions against Turkey, and that Vice President Pence is planning a trip there.
“The United States of America wants Turkey to stop the invasion, to implement an immediate cease fire and to begin to negotiate with Kurdish forces in Syria to bring an end to the violence,” said Pence.
There is no word on when Pence will visit, or if Turkey is ready to discuss a ceasefire.