Turkey is prepared to provide military training to Syrian rebels, should it be requested, following the recent shift in the Syrian conflict, according to Turkish Defense Minister Yasar Güler.
In a statement to reporters in Ankara, Güler emphasized that the newly established Syrian administration should be given a chance to govern, citing their constructive messages as a basis for future engagement. He also highlighted Turkey’s ongoing support for the Syrian opposition, who were instrumental in ousting President Bashar al-Assad last weekend, effectively bringing an end to the 13-year civil war.
“We believe we should see what the new administration does and give them a chance,” Güler said. “In their initial statement, the new government that replaced Assad announced its intention to respect all government institutions, the United Nations, and other international organizations.”
Turkey, a NATO member, has long been a supporter of Syrian rebel groups seeking to overthrow Assad’s regime. This support continued even as the country’s government re-engaged diplomatically with Syria, reopening its embassy in Damascus last Saturday, just days after the head of Turkey’s intelligence service visited the Syrian capital.
When asked about the possibility of military cooperation with the new Syrian government, Güler noted that Turkey already has numerous military collaborations and training agreements with various countries. However, he refrained from offering specifics regarding future dealings with the new administration in Damascus.
As Turkey navigates this complex geopolitical landscape, its role in post-Assad Syria remains pivotal, balancing its strategic interests with broader regional stability.
