Robert F. Kennedy Jr. disclosed that President-elect Donald Trump aims to withdraw U.S. troops from northern Syria, citing their vulnerability should conflicts arise between Turkey and Kurdish fighters. Trump expressed this concern during their discussion, emphasizing the necessity of preventing American forces from becoming “cannon fodder.” This decision highlights shifts in U.S. foreign policy under Trump’s leadership.
During a recent interview, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. revealed that President-elect Donald Trump intends to withdraw U.S. troops from northern Syria. Kennedy, a prominent ally of Trump, expressed concerns about the risks American soldiers face if conflicts arise between Turkey and Kurdish military forces. He detailed a conversation with Trump, wherein Trump indicated that U.S. troops were positioned between these two factions, emphasizing, “If they go up against each other, we’re in the middle.” Trump’s strong viewpoint stemmed from advice he received from military generals, who cautioned that American troops would essentially become “cannon fodder” in potential hostilities. Accordingly, Kennedy stated, “And he said, ‘Get them out!'” This represents a significant policy shift under the new presidency, raising concerns among U.S. allies regarding potential changes to America’s foreign involvement in the region.
The United States has maintained a military presence in northern Syria since 2014, primarily to support Syrian Kurdish forces known as the People’s Protection Units (YPG), which are part of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). These groups have been critical in the fight against the Islamic State group (IS). However, tensions have persisted due to Turkey’s classification of the YPG as a terrorist organization linked to the PKK, prompting Turkey to conduct military operations in northern Syria. The evolution of U.S. military involvement has implications for regional stability, especially given that U.S. troops are often caught amidst these power struggles.
In summary, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. articulated President Trump’s desire to withdraw U.S. troops from northern Syria amid escalating tensions between Turkey and Kurdish forces. Trump’s assessment reflects a strategic reconsideration of military engagement in the region, focusing on the potential risks involved. This shift in policy underscores the complexities of U.S. foreign relations in the Middle East, particularly regarding support for Kurdish factions and their implications for regional security.
Original Source: www.middleeasteye.net
