President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Saturday rejected worldwide condemnation over Turkey's decision to convert the Byzantine-era monument Hagia Sophia back into a mosque, saying it represented his country's will to use its "sovereign rights".

Erdogan, who is accused by critics of chipping away at the Muslim-majority country's secular pillars, announced Friday that Muslim prayers would begin on July 24 at the UNESCO World Heritage site.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/first-prayers-in-hagia-sophia-to-be-held-on-july-24-turkish-president-erdogan-says-312481" hreflang="en">First prayers in Hagia Sophia to be held on July 24, Turkish President Erdogan says</a>

''Accusations against our country about Hagia Sophia directly target our sovereign rights,''&nbsp;said Erdogan, responding to concern over the proposal from the West, particularly Greece, France and the United States.

''We are determined to continue to protect the rights of Muslims, our country’s majority faith, as well as members of all other faiths and religions,''&nbsp;he added at the formal opening of another mosque in Istanbul.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/top-turkey-court-revokes-hagia-sophias-museum-status-paving-way-for-mosque-312332">Top Turkey court revokes Hagia Sophia's museum status, paving way for mosque</a>

In the past, he has repeatedly called for the stunning building to be renamed as a mosque.&nbsp;

"Those who do not take a step against Islamophobia in their own countries ... attack Turkey's will to use its sovereign rights," Erdogan said during a ceremony he attended via video-conference.

A magnet for tourists worldwide, the Hagia Sophia was first constructed as a cathedral in the Christian Byzantine Empire but was converted into a mosque after the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople in 1453.&nbsp;

Erdogan's announcement came after the cancellation by a top court of a 1934 cabinet decision under modern Turkey's secularising founder Mustafa Kemal Ataturk to preserve the church-turned-mosque as a museum.

Erdogan went ahead with the plan despite an open appeal from the NATO ally the United States as well as Russia, with which Ankara has forged close relations in recent years.&nbsp;

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Saturday rejected worldwide condemnation over Turkey's decision to convert the Byzantine-era monument Hagia Sophia back into a mosque, saying it represented his country's will to use its "sovereign rights".

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Saturday rejected worldwide condemnation over Turkey's decision to convert the Byzantine-era monument Hagia Sophia back into a mosque, saying it represented his country's will to use its "sovereign rights". Erdogan, who is accused by critics of chipping away at the Muslim-majority country's secular pillars, announced Friday that Muslim prayers would begin on July 24 at the UNESCO World Heritage site. Also read: First prayers in Hagia Sophia to be held on July 24, Turkish President Erdogan says ''Accusations against our country about Hagia Sophia directly target our sovereign rights,'' said Erdogan, responding to concern over the proposal from the West, particularly Greece, France and the United States. ''We are determined to continue to protect the rights of Muslims, our country’s majority faith, as well as members of all other faiths and religions,'' he added at the formal opening of another mosque in Istanbul. Also read | Top Turkey court revokes Hagia Sophia's museum status, paving way for mosque In the past, he has repeatedly called for the stunning building to be renamed as a mosque. "Those who do not take a step against Islamophobia in their own countries ... attack Turkey's will to use its sovereign rights," Erdogan said during a ceremony he attended via video-conference. A magnet for tourists worldwide, the Hagia Sophia was first constructed as a cathedral in the Christian Byzantine Empire but was converted into a mosque after the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople in 1453. Erdogan's announcement came after the cancellation by a top court of a 1934 cabinet decision under modern Turkey's secularising founder Mustafa Kemal Ataturk to preserve the church-turned-mosque as a museum. Erdogan went ahead with the plan despite an open appeal from the NATO ally the United States as well as Russia, with which Ankara has forged close relations in recent years.

Turkish President Erdogan rejects criticism over Hagia Sophia's conversion to mosque

The UN's cultural agency UNESCO warned Turkey on Friday against converting the Byzantine-era Hagia Sophia museum in Istanbul into a mosque, urging dialogue before any decision is taken.

The Hagia Sophia, which was first a cathedral then a mosque after the conquest of Istanbul, is inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site as part of an area designated as "Historic Areas of Istanbul."

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/istanbuls-iconic-hagia-sophias-fate-hangs-in-balance-309863">Istanbul's iconic Hagia Sophia's fate hangs in balance</a>

Turkey's top administrative court is likely to announce on Friday that the 1934 conversion of the&nbsp;Hagia&nbsp;Sophia&nbsp;to a museum was unlawful, two Turkish officials said, paving the way for its restoration as a mosque.

UNESCO said that the&nbsp;Hagia&nbsp;Sophia&nbsp;was on its list of World Heritage Sites as a museum, and as such had certain commitments and legal obligations.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/erdogans-bid-to-turn-hagia-sophia-museum-into-a-mosque-sparks-political-row-311431">Erdogan's bid to turn Hagia Sophia museum into a mosque sparks political row</a>

"Thus, a state must make sure that no modification undermines the outstanding universal value of a site listed on its territory," UNESCO said.

"Any modification must be notified beforehand by the state to UNESCO and be reviewed if need be by the World Heritage Committee," it added.

UNESCO said it had expressed its concerns to Turkish authorities in several letters and conveyed the message to Turkey's ambassador to the institution on Thursday.

"We urge Turkish authorities to start a dialog before any decision is taken that could undermine the universal value of the site," UNESCO said.

Hagia Sophia was first constructed as a cathedral in the Christian Byzantine Empire but was converted into a mosque after the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople in 1453.

Turning it into a museum was a key reform of the post-Ottoman authorities under the modern republic's founder Mustafa Kemal Ataturk.

But calls for it to serve again as a mosque have sparked anger among Christians and tensions between the historic foes and uneasy NATO allies Turkey and Greece.

The World Heritage site was at the centre of both the Christian Byzantine and Muslim Ottoman empires and is today one of Turkey's most visited monuments.

The prospect of a change in the museum's status back to a mosque has raised alarm among US, French, Russian and Greek officials, as well as Christian church leaders.

The UN's cultural agency UNESCO warned Turkey on Friday against converting the Byzantine-era Hagia Sophia museum in Istanbul into a mosque, urging dialogue before any decision is taken.

The UN's cultural agency UNESCO warned Turkey on Friday against converting the Byzantine-era Hagia Sophia museum in Istanbul into a mosque, urging dialogue before any decision is taken. The Hagia Sophia, which was first a cathedral then a mosque after the conquest of Istanbul, is inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site as part of an area designated as "Historic Areas of Istanbul." Also see: Istanbul's iconic Hagia Sophia's fate hangs in balance Turkey's top administrative court is likely to announce on Friday that the 1934 conversion of the Hagia Sophia to a museum was unlawful, two Turkish officials said, paving the way for its restoration as a mosque. UNESCO said that the Hagia Sophia was on its list of World Heritage Sites as a museum, and as such had certain commitments and legal obligations. Also read: Erdogan's bid to turn Hagia Sophia museum into a mosque sparks political row "Thus, a state must make sure that no modification undermines the outstanding universal value of a site listed on its territory," UNESCO said. "Any modification must be notified beforehand by the state to UNESCO and be reviewed if need be by the World Heritage Committee," it added. UNESCO said it had expressed its concerns to Turkish authorities in several letters and conveyed the message to Turkey's ambassador to the institution on Thursday. "We urge Turkish authorities to start a dialog before any decision is taken that could undermine the universal value of the site," UNESCO said. Hagia Sophia was first constructed as a cathedral in the Christian Byzantine Empire but was converted into a mosque after the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople in 1453. Turning it into a museum was a key reform of the post-Ottoman authorities under the modern republic's founder Mustafa Kemal Ataturk. But calls for it to serve again as a mosque have sparked anger among Christians and tensions between the historic foes and uneasy NATO allies Turkey and Greece. The World Heritage site was at the centre of both the Christian Byzantine and Muslim Ottoman empires and is today one of Turkey's most visited monuments. The prospect of a change in the museum's status back to a mosque has raised alarm among US, French, Russian and Greek officials, as well as Christian church leaders.

UNESCO warns Turkey against Hagia Sophia mosque conversion

Homosexuality is legal and LGBTQ people have the right to seek asylum in Turkey since 1951. Pride celebrations under the rule of Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdoğan have come under attacks from the hardliners. Watch report.

Twitter hashtags condemn pride celebrations in Turkey

WION Dispatch: LGBTQ activists vs hardliners in Turkey, Pride celebrations expose fault lines

Twenty Saudi suspects including two former aides to Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman went on trial in absentia in Turkey on Friday, accused of killing and dismembering journalist Jamal&nbsp;Khashoggi&nbsp;in 2018.

Khashoggi, 59, was an insider-turned-critic who&nbsp;was killed inside the Saudi consulate in Istanbul on October 2, 2018 where he had gone to obtain documents for his wedding to Turkish fiancee Hatice Cengiz.

Turkish prosecutors claim Saudi deputy intelligence chief Ahmed al-Assiri and the royal court's media czar Saud al-Qahtani led the operation and gave orders to a Saudi hit team.

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They were formally charged in March with&nbsp;"instigating the deliberate and monstrous killing, causing torment".

Eighteen other suspects, including intelligence operative Maher Mutreb who frequently travelled with the crown prince on foreign tours, forensic expert Salah al-Tubaigy and Fahad al-Balawi, a member of the Saudi royal guard, were charged with "deliberately and monstrously killing, causing torment".

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The prosecutor has already issued arrest warrants for the suspects who are not in Turkey, so they face life terms without the likelihood of ever serving any conviction.

Cengiz, who is a complainant in the case, was attending the trial alongside the UN special rapporteur&nbsp;on extrajudicial, summary or arbitrary executions, Agnes Callamard.

Yasin Aktay, a close friend of&nbsp;Khashoggi&nbsp;and advisor to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's ruling party, was also in the courtroom.

Erdogan has said the order to murder&nbsp;Khashoggi&nbsp;came from "the highest levels" of the Saudi government but has never directly blamed Prince Mohammed.

Twenty Saudi suspects including two former aides to Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman went on trial in absentia in Turkey on Friday, accused of killing and dismembering journalist Jamal Khashoggi in 2018.

Twenty Saudi suspects including two former aides to Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman went on trial in absentia in Turkey on Friday, accused of killing and dismembering journalist Jamal Khashoggi in 2018. Khashoggi, 59, was an insider-turned-critic who was killed inside the Saudi consulate in Istanbul on October 2, 2018 where he had gone to obtain documents for his wedding to Turkish fiancee Hatice Cengiz. Turkish prosecutors claim Saudi deputy intelligence chief Ahmed al-Assiri and the royal court's media czar Saud al-Qahtani led the operation and gave orders to a Saudi hit team. Also read| 'Forgive those who killed our father': Sons of killed Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi They were formally charged in March with "instigating the deliberate and monstrous killing, causing torment". Eighteen other suspects, including intelligence operative Maher Mutreb who frequently travelled with the crown prince on foreign tours, forensic expert Salah al-Tubaigy and Fahad al-Balawi, a member of the Saudi royal guard, were charged with "deliberately and monstrously killing, causing torment". Also read| Jamal Khashoggi's fiancee pleads Premier League to block Saudi takeover The prosecutor has already issued arrest warrants for the suspects who are not in Turkey, so they face life terms without the likelihood of ever serving any conviction. Cengiz, who is a complainant in the case, was attending the trial alongside the UN special rapporteur on extrajudicial, summary or arbitrary executions, Agnes Callamard. Yasin Aktay, a close friend of Khashoggi and advisor to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's ruling party, was also in the courtroom. Erdogan has said the order to murder Khashoggi came from "the highest levels" of the Saudi government but has never directly blamed Prince Mohammed.

Jamal Khashoggi murder: Turkey trial of 20 Saudi suspects begins in absentia

Turkey on Tuesday fired back at France, accusing Paris of "playing a dangerous game in Libya" by supporting strongman Khalifa Haftar against the UN-recognised government in Tripoli.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-threatens-to-target-haftars-forces-in-libya-if-attacks-persist-297839">Turkey threatens to target Haftar's forces in Libya if attacks persist</a>

"France has a major responsibility for Libya being dragged into chaos by supporting illegal structures there for years, and therefore, it is actually France which is playing a dangerous game in Libya," the foreign ministry said in a statement.

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In a sign of mounting tensions between two NATO allies, French President Emmanuel Macron accused Ankara on Monday of playing a "dangerous game" in the north African country that can no longer be tolerated.

Turkey on Tuesday fired back at France, accusing Paris of "playing a dangerous game in Libya" by supporting strongman Khalifa Haftar against the UN-recognised government in Tripoli.

Turkey on Tuesday fired back at France, accusing Paris of "playing a dangerous game in Libya" by supporting strongman Khalifa Haftar against the UN-recognised government in Tripoli. Also read: Turkey threatens to target Haftar's forces in Libya if attacks persist "France has a major responsibility for Libya being dragged into chaos by supporting illegal structures there for years, and therefore, it is actually France which is playing a dangerous game in Libya," the foreign ministry said in a statement. In a sign of mounting tensions between two NATO allies, French President Emmanuel Macron accused Ankara on Monday of playing a "dangerous game" in the north African country that can no longer be tolerated.

France, not Turkey, playing 'dangerous game' in Libya: Ankara

President Tayyip&nbsp;Erdogan&nbsp;vowed on Thursday (June 4) to increase Turkey's support for Libya's internationally recognised government, and added that the two sides would expand their cooperation in the eastern Mediterranean, following talks in Ankara ahead of a new round of potential ceasefire talks.

Fayez al Serraj, leader of Libya's Government of National Accord (GNA), held lengthy talks with&nbsp;Erdogan&nbsp;in Ankara, as the allies seek to lock in battlefield gains, including recapturing Tripoli, ahead of the truce talks.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/libya-talks-in-stalemate-as-russia-accuses-turkey-of-infiltrating-foreign-fighters-283096">Libya talks in stalemate as Russia accuses Turkey of infiltrating foreign fighters</a>

Turkey started backing the GNA in November after signing a military cooperation pact alongside a maritime demarcation deal, which gives Ankara oil exploration rights in the Mediterranean that Greece and others reject.

Turkish support in the conflict has pushed back Khalifa Haftar's eastern-based Libyan National Army (LNA), backed by the United Arab Emirates, Russia and Egypt, which had been attacking the GNA in Tripoli since April 2019. On Thursday, the GNA said it had regained control of Tripoli.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/poor-relations-between-uae-and-turkey-have-further-complicated-conflicts-in-the-middle-east-300864">Poor relations between UAE and Turkey have further complicated conflicts in the Middle East</a>

The latest advance could hasten steps toward a potential truce, underlining Turkey's growing influence in the resource-rich region where&nbsp;Erdogan&nbsp;could seek lasting energy and military cooperation.

Serraj's visit to Turkey comes after weeks of gains by the GNA, driving Haftar from his foothold in the northwest. A senior Turkish official said the recent gains by the GNA were critical ahead of the truce talks, and Ankara has said the recent gains were an opportunity for political talks.

President Tayyip Erdogan vowed on Thursday (June 4) to increase Turkey's support for Libya's internationally recognised government, and added that the two sides would expand their cooperation in the eastern Mediterranean, following talks in Ankara ahead of a new round of potential ceasefire talks.

President Tayyip Erdogan vowed on Thursday (June 4) to increase Turkey's support for Libya's internationally recognised government, and added that the two sides would expand their cooperation in the eastern Mediterranean, following talks in Ankara ahead of a new round of potential ceasefire talks. Fayez al Serraj, leader of Libya's Government of National Accord (GNA), held lengthy talks with Erdogan in Ankara, as the allies seek to lock in battlefield gains, including recapturing Tripoli, ahead of the truce talks. Also read: Libya talks in stalemate as Russia accuses Turkey of infiltrating foreign fighters Turkey started backing the GNA in November after signing a military cooperation pact alongside a maritime demarcation deal, which gives Ankara oil exploration rights in the Mediterranean that Greece and others reject. Turkish support in the conflict has pushed back Khalifa Haftar's eastern-based Libyan National Army (LNA), backed by the United Arab Emirates, Russia and Egypt, which had been attacking the GNA in Tripoli since April 2019. On Thursday, the GNA said it had regained control of Tripoli. Also read: Poor relations between UAE and Turkey have further complicated conflicts in the Middle East The latest advance could hasten steps toward a potential truce, underlining Turkey's growing influence in the resource-rich region where Erdogan could seek lasting energy and military cooperation. Serraj's visit to Turkey comes after weeks of gains by the GNA, driving Haftar from his foothold in the northwest. A senior Turkish official said the recent gains by the GNA were critical ahead of the truce talks, and Ankara has said the recent gains were an opportunity for political talks.

Turkey to increase support for Libya's Serraj, says Erdogan

Turkey&nbsp;has detained 64 people over "provocative and baseless" social media posts about the new coronavirus pandemic, the interior ministry said.

The ministry did not give details but there have been instances in other countries of misinformation shared online including in Indonesia and the United States.

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"We have found 242 suspects making baseless and provocative coronavirus posts on social media, and 64 have been detained," the ministry said on Twitter late Thursday.

It did not give further details but said work continued to detain others.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-declares-first-coronavirus-case-praised-by-who-for-vigilance-285694">Turkey declares first coronavirus case, praised by WHO for vigilance</a>

Turkey&nbsp;has so far confirmed four deaths from the novel coronavirus, while 359 cases of infection have been recorded.

Ankara has taken a series of measures including temporarily shutting schools and universities as well as cinemas, gyms and shisha cafes.

The presidency on Friday issued a circular banning cultural, scientific, artistic and similar indoor and outdoor events until the end of April.

Turkey has detained 64 people over "provocative and baseless" social media posts about the new coronavirus pandemic, the interior ministry said. The ministry did not give details but there have been instances in other countries of misinformation shared online including in Indonesia and the United States.

Turkey has detained 64 people over "provocative and baseless" social media posts about the new coronavirus pandemic, the interior ministry said. The ministry did not give details but there have been instances in other countries of misinformation shared online including in Indonesia and the United States. Also read: Footballer John Obi Mikel leaves Turkish team over coronavirus fears "We have found 242 suspects making baseless and provocative coronavirus posts on social media, and 64 have been detained," the ministry said on Twitter late Thursday. It did not give further details but said work continued to detain others. Also read: Turkey declares first coronavirus case, praised by WHO for vigilance Turkey has so far confirmed four deaths from the novel coronavirus, while 359 cases of infection have been recorded. Ankara has taken a series of measures including temporarily shutting schools and universities as well as cinemas, gyms and shisha cafes. The presidency on Friday issued a circular banning cultural, scientific, artistic and similar indoor and outdoor events until the end of April.

64 people detained in Turkey over 'provocative' coronavirus posts

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Tuesday discussed the migrant crisis and the situation in Syria's rebel enclave of Idlib, with the leaders of France, Germany and Britain.&nbsp;

The four-party video conference that involved French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Angela Merkel and British Prime Minister Boris Johnson came after Turkey decided last month to re-open its border for refugees trying to reach Europe.

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The move sparked tensions with Brussels, and with neighbouring Greece when thousands of migrants massed on the Turkish-Greek border.

"Humanitarian assistance for Idlib, and the refugee issue" were on the agenda according to the Turkish presidency, along with other issues such as fighting in Libya.&nbsp;

Erdogan's decision to open the gates for refugees heading to Europe came after more than 50 Turkish troops were killed by Syrian regime fire in the northwestern province of Idlib in February.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/greece-migrant-crisis-tense-situation-on-the-greek-turkish-border-285032">Greece migrant crisis: Tense situation on the Greek-Turkish border</a>

Turkey is home to four million refugees mostly Syrians and is demanding more assistance from the European Union amid fears of another influx from Idlib, where the Syrian regime has launched an offensive backed by Russian airpower.

Ankara hopes for progress on a new migrant deal with Brussels by the next scheduled EU summit on March 26.&nbsp;

Macron's office said there was a convergence of views on the situation in Idlib and the need to step up humanitarian aid to civilians, during the conference that lasted about an hour.&nbsp;

But on the migrant issue, NATO and EU relations, "a number of clarifications have been requested by Europeans from Erdogan in order to achieve clearer and peaceful relations," the Elysee said.&nbsp;

Because of the growing spread of COVID-19, the meeting was held via video conference rather than in person in Istanbul.

The four leaders also discussed joint action against the coronavirus, Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu tweeted.

Turkey recorded its first coronavirus-related death late on Tuesday and reported 98 cases.&nbsp;

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Tuesday discussed the migrant crisis and the situation in Syria's rebel enclave of Idlib, with the leaders of France, Germany and Britain.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Tuesday discussed the migrant crisis and the situation in Syria's rebel enclave of Idlib, with the leaders of France, Germany and Britain. The four-party video conference that involved French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Angela Merkel and British Prime Minister Boris Johnson came after Turkey decided last month to re-open its border for refugees trying to reach Europe. Also read: Migrants head to Greece as Turkey opens floodgates The move sparked tensions with Brussels, and with neighbouring Greece when thousands of migrants massed on the Turkish-Greek border. "Humanitarian assistance for Idlib, and the refugee issue" were on the agenda according to the Turkish presidency, along with other issues such as fighting in Libya. Erdogan's decision to open the gates for refugees heading to Europe came after more than 50 Turkish troops were killed by Syrian regime fire in the northwestern province of Idlib in February. Also read: Greece migrant crisis: Tense situation on the Greek-Turkish border Turkey is home to four million refugees mostly Syrians and is demanding more assistance from the European Union amid fears of another influx from Idlib, where the Syrian regime has launched an offensive backed by Russian airpower. Ankara hopes for progress on a new migrant deal with Brussels by the next scheduled EU summit on March 26. Macron's office said there was a convergence of views on the situation in Idlib and the need to step up humanitarian aid to civilians, during the conference that lasted about an hour. But on the migrant issue, NATO and EU relations, "a number of clarifications have been requested by Europeans from Erdogan in order to achieve clearer and peaceful relations," the Elysee said. Because of the growing spread of COVID-19, the meeting was held via video conference rather than in person in Istanbul. The four leaders also discussed joint action against the coronavirus, Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu tweeted. Turkey recorded its first coronavirus-related death late on Tuesday and reported 98 cases.

Erdogan discusses migrant crisis, Syria with Macron, Merkel and Johnson

Turkey urged Russia on Wednesday to deal with alleged violations of a week-old ceasefire by Syrian government forces in Idlib, the last bastion of resistance to President Bashar al-Assad.

"Although there are only small incidents here and there, the ceasefire has started to be violated," said President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who backs some rebel groups in Idlib.

"We are sharing these developments with Russia... and expect them to take measures."

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Erdogan agreed a truce last week with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin, who supports government forces, but previous deals have proved temporary.

Turkey launched a military operation in Syria after more than 50 of its soldiers were killed in Idlib last month.

Defence Minister Hulusi Akar said talks were proceeding "in a constructive fashion" with Russia to launch joint patrols along the key M4 road in Idlib on Sunday, as agreed under the ceasefire deal.

Also see: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/migrant-deal-with-european-union-needs-to-be-updated-turkey-285469">Migrant deal with European Union needs to be updated: Turkey</a>

As well as supporting some rebel groups, Turkey set up military observation posts in Idlib under a 2018 deal with Russia aimed at preventing a regime assault.

"We signed the temporary ceasefire in Moscow. The matter now is to turn this ceasefire into a permanent one. We are chasing this speedily now. Once we are done with it, we will have an easier task," Erdogan said.

"In the face of the smallest attack (on our posts), we will not only retaliate, but we will respond much more heavily."

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-pitches-for-constitutional-amendment-mps-back-package-of-changes-285487"> Putin pitches for constitutional amendment, MPs back package of changes</a>

Damascus, backed by Iranian troops and Russian air strikes, has been fighting to retake Idlib since December, pushing close to a million civilians northwards towards Turkey's border.

Turkey already hosts some four million refugees, and has called for greater assistance from Europe and its NATO partners in dealing with the crisis.

Turkey urged Russia on Wednesday to deal with alleged violations of a week-old ceasefire by Syrian government forces in Idlib, the last bastion of resistance to President Bashar al-Assad.

Turkey urged Russia on Wednesday to deal with alleged violations of a week-old ceasefire by Syrian government forces in Idlib, the last bastion of resistance to President Bashar al-Assad. "Although there are only small incidents here and there, the ceasefire has started to be violated," said President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who backs some rebel groups in Idlib. "We are sharing these developments with Russia... and expect them to take measures." Also read: Turkish President Erdogan says US offering Patriot systems if S-400s remain unboxed Erdogan agreed a truce last week with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin, who supports government forces, but previous deals have proved temporary. Turkey launched a military operation in Syria after more than 50 of its soldiers were killed in Idlib last month. Defence Minister Hulusi Akar said talks were proceeding "in a constructive fashion" with Russia to launch joint patrols along the key M4 road in Idlib on Sunday, as agreed under the ceasefire deal. Also see: Migrant deal with European Union needs to be updated: Turkey As well as supporting some rebel groups, Turkey set up military observation posts in Idlib under a 2018 deal with Russia aimed at preventing a regime assault. "We signed the temporary ceasefire in Moscow. The matter now is to turn this ceasefire into a permanent one. We are chasing this speedily now. Once we are done with it, we will have an easier task," Erdogan said. "In the face of the smallest attack (on our posts), we will not only retaliate, but we will respond much more heavily." Also read: Putin pitches for constitutional amendment, MPs back package of changes Damascus, backed by Iranian troops and Russian air strikes, has been fighting to retake Idlib since December, pushing close to a million civilians northwards towards Turkey's border. Turkey already hosts some four million refugees, and has called for greater assistance from Europe and its NATO partners in dealing with the crisis.

Turkey urges Russia to address Syria truce violations

Syria's war-ravaged northwest woke up to relative calm Friday, its skies free of warplanes for the first day in months, following a Russian-Turkish ceasefire deal.

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights monitoring group and sources in Idlib province said the truce that came into force at midnight appeared to be holding.

Observatory chief Rami Abdel Rahman reported "a complete absence of regime and Russian warplanes in the Idlib airspace".

He said an exchange of fire that did not cause any casualties took place before dawn but added that belligerents on Friday seemed to be observing the ceasefire.

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Russian President Vladimir Putin and his Turkish counterpart Recep Tayyip Erdogan, the two main foreign brokers in the nine-year-old conflict, reached a deal after hours of talks in Moscow on Thursday.

The agreement will create a security corridor along the key M4 highway in northern Syria, where Turkish and Russian forces will launch joint patrols later this month.

Putin told a joint news conference after the talks that the agreement would "serve as a good basis for ending fighting" in Idlib and for "stopping the suffering of the civilian population".

A Russian-backed government offensive on the last rebel bastion in the country has killed hundreds of civilians since December and displaced close to a million people.

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The crisis it has sparked on Turkey's doorstep has been described by the United Nations as the worst humanitarian emergency yet since the start of the war in 2011.

Tensions had risen in recent weeks between Damascus and Turkey, which has had troops in northern Syria since 2016 and backs rebel groups.

A regime strike last month in Idlib resulted in the deaths of 34 Turkish soldiers, the heaviest loss of personnel for Ankara since its military intervention in Syria.

Turkey's reply has been bruising, with devastating drone and rocket strikes destroying regime positions and military equipment and killing dozens of government troops.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-russia-have-agreed-on-syria-ceasefire-from-midnight-president-erdogan-284594">Turkey, Russia have agreed on Syria ceasefire from midnight: President Erdogan</a>

The joint Russian-Turkish patrols will operate between the town of Tronba in Idlib and a village in Latakia province, a regime stronghold.

These patrols, which will mark the first time Russian and Turkish forces operate jointly in Idlib, are due to start on March 15.

On that day, the conflict which has killed close to 400,000 people and displaced half of the population of Syria, will enter its tenth year.

Syria's war-ravaged northwest woke up to relative calm Friday, its skies free of warplanes for the first day in months, following a Russian-Turkish ceasefire deal.

Syria's war-ravaged northwest woke up to relative calm Friday, its skies free of warplanes for the first day in months, following a Russian-Turkish ceasefire deal. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights monitoring group and sources in Idlib province said the truce that came into force at midnight appeared to be holding. Observatory chief Rami Abdel Rahman reported "a complete absence of regime and Russian warplanes in the Idlib airspace". He said an exchange of fire that did not cause any casualties took place before dawn but added that belligerents on Friday seemed to be observing the ceasefire. Also read: Putin, Erdogan seek to ease Syria tensions at high-stakes talks Russian President Vladimir Putin and his Turkish counterpart Recep Tayyip Erdogan, the two main foreign brokers in the nine-year-old conflict, reached a deal after hours of talks in Moscow on Thursday. The agreement will create a security corridor along the key M4 highway in northern Syria, where Turkish and Russian forces will launch joint patrols later this month. Putin told a joint news conference after the talks that the agreement would "serve as a good basis for ending fighting" in Idlib and for "stopping the suffering of the civilian population". A Russian-backed government offensive on the last rebel bastion in the country has killed hundreds of civilians since December and displaced close to a million people. Also see: Syrian air defence responds to 'Israeli missiles': Report The crisis it has sparked on Turkey's doorstep has been described by the United Nations as the worst humanitarian emergency yet since the start of the war in 2011. Tensions had risen in recent weeks between Damascus and Turkey, which has had troops in northern Syria since 2016 and backs rebel groups. A regime strike last month in Idlib resulted in the deaths of 34 Turkish soldiers, the heaviest loss of personnel for Ankara since its military intervention in Syria. Turkey's reply has been bruising, with devastating drone and rocket strikes destroying regime positions and military equipment and killing dozens of government troops. Also read: Turkey, Russia have agreed on Syria ceasefire from midnight: President Erdogan The joint Russian-Turkish patrols will operate between the town of Tronba in Idlib and a village in Latakia province, a regime stronghold. These patrols, which will mark the first time Russian and Turkish forces operate jointly in Idlib, are due to start on March 15. On that day, the conflict which has killed close to 400,000 people and displaced half of the population of Syria, will enter its tenth year.

Rare calm in Syria's Idlib after ceasefire deal

The leaders of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-fighter-jet-downs-syrian-warplane-over-idlib-monitor-283993">Russia and Turkey meet in Moscow</a> on Thursday in a bid to ease tensions that have threatened to bring their two countries into direct conflict in Syria.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said he would be looking for Russia's Vladimir Putin to agree to a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/top-european-union-envoy-heads-to-turkey-for-syrian-refugee-talks-283921">rapid ceasefire in Idlib</a>, the northwestern province of Syria where Ankara is battling Moscow-backed regime forces.

Intense fighting has killed dozens of Turkish soldiers in Idlib in recent weeks, as Ankara for the first time launched a direct offensive against President Bashar al-Assad's regime.

Erdogan upped the stakes last week, demanding<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/war-threatens-to-spill-beyond-syrias-borders-283794"> Europe support his efforts in Syria</a> and prompting a new migration crisis by opening Turkey's border with Greece to refugees and migrants.

"(I hope) there will be a ceasefire swiftly established" in Idlib, Erdogan said Wednesday ahead of the talks.

Ankara wants Assad's forces to cease an assault on Idlib, the last rebel stronghold in Syria, and pull back behind lines agreed under a 2018 deal with Russia brokered in Sochi.

Turkey has long backed certain rebel groups against Assad but its priority now is to stop another influx of refugees, as close to a million civilians in Idlib have been displaced by the regime's latest assault.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Wednesday the two leaders would discuss the causes and effects of the crisis and "joint measures" they could agree to defuse it.

But Moscow -- which launched an air campaign in support of Assad in 2015 -- will be keen to send a message that Turkey cannot stand in the way of Syria eventually retaking full control of its territory.

"There might be a ceasefire announced after the talks between Putin and Erdogan but it'll be for show," a Western diplomat told AFP.

"I believe Putin will tell Erdogan that's it for his actions in Syria."

Trading accusations

The Kremlin sees Russia's campaign in Syria as a key victory of Putin's foreign policy, with clout and military bases in the country that establish Moscow as a major player in the Middle East.

Experts say Putin is not looking for a full confrontation with NATO member Turkey but also will not back down.

"Victory in Syria has become a matter of prestige for Russia -- and for Putin personally," said Yury Barmin, a Middle East analyst at the Russian International Affairs Council.

Despite supporting opposing sides in the war, Russia and Turkey have worked closely to try to resolve the nine-year conflict and avoid direct confrontation between their forces.

But that relationship has been strained in recent days, with the two sides trading accusations of violating the Sochi deal, which created a buffer zone and allowed for the deployment of 12 Turkish observation posts.

Ankara says Russia is not fulfilling part of the deal that guaranteed no attacks on Idlib and the status quo on the ground.

Moscow says Turkey is violating the deal by supporting "illegal armed groups" and has accused Turkish forces of mingling with "terrorists" who are legitimate targets.

In the latest salvo on Wednesday, Russian defence ministry spokesman Igor Konashenkov said "the fortified positions of terrorists have merged with the Turkish observation posts" deployed under the Sochi deal.

Migrants mass on border

Turkey said Wednesday that at least two more Turkish soldiers had been killed in Idlib, after 34 died in an air strike last week blamed on Damascus.

Turkey officially declared an operation against the Assad regime over the weekend, named "Spring Shield".

It has since downed three Syrian warplanes and killed dozens of regime soldiers and allied fighters -- mostly through drone strikes -- according to monitors.

Erdogan warned Europe on Wednesday that it must support Turkey's "political and humanitarian solutions in Syria" if it wants to avoid a repeat of the 2015 migration crisis.

Thousands of migrants have massed at the Turkish-Greek border since Erdogan gave them the green light to try to enter Europe, leading to clashes with Greek police.

Turkey hosts some four million refugees, most of them Syrians but also many Afghans and Iraqis, and Erdogan's move has sparked concern in Europe of a renewed influx of migrants.

The leaders of Russia and Turkey meet in Moscow on Thursday in a bid to ease tensions that have threatened to bring their two countries into direct conflict in Syria.

The leaders of Russia and Turkey meet in Moscow on Thursday in a bid to ease tensions that have threatened to bring their two countries into direct conflict in Syria. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said he would be looking for Russia's Vladimir Putin to agree to a rapid ceasefire in Idlib, the northwestern province of Syria where Ankara is battling Moscow-backed regime forces. Intense fighting has killed dozens of Turkish soldiers in Idlib in recent weeks, as Ankara for the first time launched a direct offensive against President Bashar al-Assad's regime. Erdogan upped the stakes last week, demanding Europe support his efforts in Syria and prompting a new migration crisis by opening Turkey's border with Greece to refugees and migrants. "(I hope) there will be a ceasefire swiftly established" in Idlib, Erdogan said Wednesday ahead of the talks. Ankara wants Assad's forces to cease an assault on Idlib, the last rebel stronghold in Syria, and pull back behind lines agreed under a 2018 deal with Russia brokered in Sochi. Turkey has long backed certain rebel groups against Assad but its priority now is to stop another influx of refugees, as close to a million civilians in Idlib have been displaced by the regime's latest assault. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Wednesday the two leaders would discuss the causes and effects of the crisis and "joint measures" they could agree to defuse it. But Moscow -- which launched an air campaign in support of Assad in 2015 -- will be keen to send a message that Turkey cannot stand in the way of Syria eventually retaking full control of its territory. "There might be a ceasefire announced after the talks between Putin and Erdogan but it'll be for show," a Western diplomat told AFP. "I believe Putin will tell Erdogan that's it for his actions in Syria." Trading accusations The Kremlin sees Russia's campaign in Syria as a key victory of Putin's foreign policy, with clout and military bases in the country that establish Moscow as a major player in the Middle East. Experts say Putin is not looking for a full confrontation with NATO member Turkey but also will not back down. "Victory in Syria has become a matter of prestige for Russia -- and for Putin personally," said Yury Barmin, a Middle East analyst at the Russian International Affairs Council. Despite supporting opposing sides in the war, Russia and Turkey have worked closely to try to resolve the nine-year conflict and avoid direct confrontation between their forces. But that relationship has been strained in recent days, with the two sides trading accusations of violating the Sochi deal, which created a buffer zone and allowed for the deployment of 12 Turkish observation posts. Ankara says Russia is not fulfilling part of the deal that guaranteed no attacks on Idlib and the status quo on the ground. Moscow says Turkey is violating the deal by supporting "illegal armed groups" and has accused Turkish forces of mingling with "terrorists" who are legitimate targets. In the latest salvo on Wednesday, Russian defence ministry spokesman Igor Konashenkov said "the fortified positions of terrorists have merged with the Turkish observation posts" deployed under the Sochi deal. Migrants mass on border Turkey said Wednesday that at least two more Turkish soldiers had been killed in Idlib, after 34 died in an air strike last week blamed on Damascus. Turkey officially declared an operation against the Assad regime over the weekend, named "Spring Shield". It has since downed three Syrian warplanes and killed dozens of regime soldiers and allied fighters -- mostly through drone strikes -- according to monitors. Erdogan warned Europe on Wednesday that it must support Turkey's "political and humanitarian solutions in Syria" if it wants to avoid a repeat of the 2015 migration crisis. Thousands of migrants have massed at the Turkish-Greek border since Erdogan gave them the green light to try to enter Europe, leading to clashes with Greek police. Turkey hosts some four million refugees, most of them Syrians but also many Afghans and Iraqis, and Erdogan's move has sparked concern in Europe of a renewed influx of migrants.

Putin, Erdogan seek to ease Syria tensions at high-stakes talks

The EU's top diplomat and its crisis-management chief set off for Turkey on Tuesday after President Recep Tayyip Erdogan warned he could allow millions of refugees to head for Europe.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-says-pursuing-military-operation-against-syrian-regime-283560">Turkey says pursuing military operation against Syrian regime</a>

EU High Representative Josep Borrell and Commissioner&nbsp;Janez Lenarcic will spend two days in the country for "high-level" meetings with Turkish officials on the Syrian crisis and the row about refugees and migrants.

Watch: Syria shuts down air space over Idlib

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/syria-shuts-down-air-space-over-idlib-283819/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"They will hold talks on the ongoing escalation in the northwestern Syrian province of Idlib and the humanitarian consequences for the civilian population on the ground, as well as the situation of Syrian refugees in Turkey," Borrell's office said.

"During their visit to Ankara, they will meet with high-level interlocutors of the Turkish authorities."

After the talks in Ankara, Borrell will attend an EU foreign ministers meeting in Zagreb on March 5 and 6, and Lenarcic will visit refugee centres in Turkey's southeastern province of Gaziantep.

The visit comes amid intense fighting in the Syrian city of Idlib between pro-government forces and Turkish-backed rebels, and after Erdogan escalated the refugee dispute with Brussels.&nbsp;

Turkey has given a green light to refugees and migrants on its territory, many of them displaced Syrians, to leave for the European Union, in defiance of a 2016 deal to keep them.

On Monday, German Chancellor Angela Merkel described Turkey's move as "unacceptable" and EU migration commissioner Margaritis Schinas said nobody could "blackmail or intimidate the EU".

The EU's top diplomat and its crisis-management chief set off for Turkey on Tuesday after President Recep Tayyip Erdogan warned he could allow millions of refugees to head for Europe.

The EU's top diplomat and its crisis-management chief set off for Turkey on Tuesday after President Recep Tayyip Erdogan warned he could allow millions of refugees to head for Europe. Also read: Turkey says pursuing military operation against Syrian regime EU High Representative Josep Borrell and Commissioner Janez Lenarcic will spend two days in the country for "high-level" meetings with Turkish officials on the Syrian crisis and the row about refugees and migrants. Watch: Syria shuts down air space over Idlib "They will hold talks on the ongoing escalation in the northwestern Syrian province of Idlib and the humanitarian consequences for the civilian population on the ground, as well as the situation of Syrian refugees in Turkey," Borrell's office said. "During their visit to Ankara, they will meet with high-level interlocutors of the Turkish authorities." After the talks in Ankara, Borrell will attend an EU foreign ministers meeting in Zagreb on March 5 and 6, and Lenarcic will visit refugee centres in Turkey's southeastern province of Gaziantep. The visit comes amid intense fighting in the Syrian city of Idlib between pro-government forces and Turkish-backed rebels, and after Erdogan escalated the refugee dispute with Brussels. Turkey has given a green light to refugees and migrants on its territory, many of them displaced Syrians, to leave for the European Union, in defiance of a 2016 deal to keep them. On Monday, German Chancellor Angela Merkel described Turkey's move as "unacceptable" and EU migration commissioner Margaritis Schinas said nobody could "blackmail or intimidate the EU".

Top European Union envoy heads to Turkey for Syrian refugee talks

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan will visit Russia on Thursday for a summit with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin to discuss the mounting tensions in Syria, his office said Monday.&nbsp;

"The president is due to pay a one-day visit to Russia on March 5," the Turkish presidency said in a statement.&nbsp;

Turkey confirmed on Sunday that it had launched a full military operation against Russian-backed Syrian forces following increasing clashes in the last rebel stronghold of Idlib.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkish-drones-kill-19-syrian-government-soldiers-as-tensions-soar-283645">Turkish drones kill 19 Syrian government soldiers as tensions soar</a>

Ankara, which backs Islamist fighters in the province, killed 19 Syrian soldiers in drone strikes on Sunday and downed two regime planes.&nbsp;

But it remains determined to avoid direct clashes with Moscow, with which it shares significant defense and trade ties.

Despite being on opposing sides of the conflict, Turkey and Russia have coordinated closely in the past.&nbsp;

Also see: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/refugees-stream-towards-greece-after-turkey-opens-gates-283696">Refugees stream towards Greece after Turkey opens gates</a>

They secured a deal in Sochi in 2018 that led to Turkey establishing 12 military observation posts in Idlib to prevent a Syrian offensive and a fresh flood of refugees into Turkish territory.&nbsp;

But Syria and Russia look increasingly determined to regain full control of the area and an offensive launched in December has displaced close to a million civilians, and seen increasing clashes between Turkish and Syrian forces.&nbsp;

The latest escalation followed the killing of 34 Turkish soldiers last week in an airstrike blamed on Damascus.

&nbsp;

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan will visit Russia on Thursday for a summit with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin to discuss the mounting tensions in Syria, his office said Monday.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan will visit Russia on Thursday for a summit with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin to discuss the mounting tensions in Syria, his office said Monday. "The president is due to pay a one-day visit to Russia on March 5," the Turkish presidency said in a statement. Turkey confirmed on Sunday that it had launched a full military operation against Russian-backed Syrian forces following increasing clashes in the last rebel stronghold of Idlib. Also read: Turkish drones kill 19 Syrian government soldiers as tensions soar Ankara, which backs Islamist fighters in the province, killed 19 Syrian soldiers in drone strikes on Sunday and downed two regime planes. But it remains determined to avoid direct clashes with Moscow, with which it shares significant defense and trade ties. Despite being on opposing sides of the conflict, Turkey and Russia have coordinated closely in the past. Also see: Refugees stream towards Greece after Turkey opens gates They secured a deal in Sochi in 2018 that led to Turkey establishing 12 military observation posts in Idlib to prevent a Syrian offensive and a fresh flood of refugees into Turkish territory. But Syria and Russia look increasingly determined to regain full control of the area and an offensive launched in December has displaced close to a million civilians, and seen increasing clashes between Turkish and Syrian forces. The latest escalation followed the killing of 34 Turkish soldiers last week in an airstrike blamed on Damascus.

Turkish President Erdogan to meet Putin in Russia for Syria talks: Turkish presidency

At least 33 Turkish soldiers were killed as violence escalates in Syria's Idlib province after an airstrike blamed on Damascus, with NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg condemning "indiscriminate" attacks by the Assad regime and Russia.

Dozens of more soldiers were injured and taken to Turkey for treatment, Rahmi Dogan, governor of Turkish Hatay -- bordering Syria -- said Friday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/erdogan-rules-out-smallest-step-back-in-syrias-idlib-282938">Erdogan rules out 'smallest step back' in Syria's Idlib</a>

The heavy losses in northwestern Idlib come after weeks of growing tensions between rebel supporter Ankara and Damascus ally Moscow.

Stoltenberg "urged all parties to de-escalate this dangerous situation and avoid further worsening of the horrendous humanitarian situation in the region", his spokesman said Friday.

In a phone call with Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu, the NATO secretary-general "condemned the continued indiscriminate airstrikes by the Syrian regime and its backer Russia in Idlib province", according to the spokesman.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/idlib-fighting-turkey-defence-minister-threatens-to-activate-s-400-missiles-against-russia-281961">Idlib fighting: Turkey defence minister threatens to activate S-400 missiles against Russia</a>

Turkey has urged the Syrian regime to withdraw from Turkish observation posts in Idlib, while Moscow has accused Ankara of aiding "terrorists" in Syria.

Under a 2018 deal with Russia meant to bring calm to Idlib, Turkey has 12 observation posts in the region -- but several have come under fire from Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's forces.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan hastily convened an emergency meeting in Ankara after the Idlib attack.

Erdogan's top press aide, Fahrettin Altun, said Turkey's military retaliated against all known positions of the regime after the airstrike.

In a statement, Altun called on the international community to fulfil its responsibilities to end the violence in Idlib and the regime's "crimes against humanity".

The latest attack means 53 Turkish security personnel have been killed in the province this month.

There was a flurry of diplomatic activity as Turkey's presidential spokesman Ibrahim Kalin spoke with US national security advisor, Robert O'Brien, state news agency Anadolu reported without giving detail.

More civilians killed

Jihadists and Turkish-backed rebels on Thursday re-entered Saraqeb, a key Idlib crossroads town they had lost earlier in February, reversing one of the main gains of the government's devastating offensive.

The counteroffensive could, however, be short-lived as Russian-backed Syrian troops continued to chip away at other parts of the rebel bastion, capturing 20 localities.

Seven civilians, including three children, were killed in regime and Russian bombardment of Idlib, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, adding to more than 400 such deaths since December.

The UN Security Council, where Moscow has systematically vetoed truce initiatives, met again Thursday amid growing concern Idlib is witnessing the nine-year-old war's worst humanitarian emergency.

State news agency SANA acknowledged there were "fierce clashes" between the army and "terrorist groups on the Saraqeb front".

An AFP correspondent accompanied the rebels into Saraqeb, where he found a ghost town of bombed outbuildings.

The counterattack temporarily reverses one of the key gains of the government since its offensive against the country's last rebel enclave in December.

Refugee fears

The cash-strapped government had been keen to fully secure the M5, a highway that connects Syria's four main cities and passes through Saraqeb.

The Syrian Observatory said the airstrikes were carried out by Assad government ally Russia, heavily criticised by the West for the high civilian death toll from its bombing campaign.

State media accused the "terrorists" of launching car bombings and other suicide attacks against government forces attempting to retake the town.

It said the army had inflicted heavy losses on the attackers, despite the military support it said they had received from Turkey.

Some 950,0000 civilians have fled the government offensive, raising fears in Ankara of a new influx of refugees.

Turkey already hosts the world's largest number of Syrian refugees — around 3.6 million people — placing an increasingly unpopular burden on public services.

The country's ruling party spokesman Omer Celik told CNN Turk broadcaster Friday Ankara was not in a position to "hold" refugees any longer and called on the European Union to do more.

More than half a million of those displaced since December are children, tens of thousands of whom are sleeping rough in northern Syria's harsh winter.

UN powerlessness

The Turkish president vowed Wednesday Ankara would not take the "smallest step back" in the standoff with Damascus and Moscow over Idlib.

Erdogan warned the Syrian government to "stop its attacks as soon as possible" and to pull back by the end of the month.

The UN has repeatedly warned the fighting in Idlib could potentially create the most serious humanitarian crisis since the civil war's start in 2011.

Nine out of 15 members of the Security Council on Wednesday urged Secretary-General Antonio Guterres to step up his involvement in efforts to restore peace in Idlib.

Russian vetoes, often backed by China, have chronically crippled UN action in Syria.

At least 33 Turkish soldiers were killed as violence escalates in Syria's Idlib province after an airstrike blamed on Damascus, with NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg condemning "indiscriminate" attacks by the Assad regime and Russia.

At least 33 Turkish soldiers were killed as violence escalates in Syria's Idlib province after an airstrike blamed on Damascus, with NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg condemning "indiscriminate" attacks by the Assad regime and Russia. Dozens of more soldiers were injured and taken to Turkey for treatment, Rahmi Dogan, governor of Turkish Hatay -- bordering Syria -- said Friday. Also read: Erdogan rules out 'smallest step back' in Syria's Idlib The heavy losses in northwestern Idlib come after weeks of growing tensions between rebel supporter Ankara and Damascus ally Moscow. Stoltenberg "urged all parties to de-escalate this dangerous situation and avoid further worsening of the horrendous humanitarian situation in the region", his spokesman said Friday. In a phone call with Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu, the NATO secretary-general "condemned the continued indiscriminate airstrikes by the Syrian regime and its backer Russia in Idlib province", according to the spokesman. Also read: Idlib fighting: Turkey defence minister threatens to activate S-400 missiles against Russia Turkey has urged the Syrian regime to withdraw from Turkish observation posts in Idlib, while Moscow has accused Ankara of aiding "terrorists" in Syria. Under a 2018 deal with Russia meant to bring calm to Idlib, Turkey has 12 observation posts in the region -- but several have come under fire from Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's forces. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan hastily convened an emergency meeting in Ankara after the Idlib attack. Erdogan's top press aide, Fahrettin Altun, said Turkey's military retaliated against all known positions of the regime after the airstrike. In a statement, Altun called on the international community to fulfil its responsibilities to end the violence in Idlib and the regime's "crimes against humanity". The latest attack means 53 Turkish security personnel have been killed in the province this month. There was a flurry of diplomatic activity as Turkey's presidential spokesman Ibrahim Kalin spoke with US national security advisor, Robert O'Brien, state news agency Anadolu reported without giving detail. More civilians killed Jihadists and Turkish-backed rebels on Thursday re-entered Saraqeb, a key Idlib crossroads town they had lost earlier in February, reversing one of the main gains of the government's devastating offensive. The counteroffensive could, however, be short-lived as Russian-backed Syrian troops continued to chip away at other parts of the rebel bastion, capturing 20 localities. Seven civilians, including three children, were killed in regime and Russian bombardment of Idlib, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, adding to more than 400 such deaths since December. The UN Security Council, where Moscow has systematically vetoed truce initiatives, met again Thursday amid growing concern Idlib is witnessing the nine-year-old war's worst humanitarian emergency. State news agency SANA acknowledged there were "fierce clashes" between the army and "terrorist groups on the Saraqeb front". An AFP correspondent accompanied the rebels into Saraqeb, where he found a ghost town of bombed outbuildings. The counterattack temporarily reverses one of the key gains of the government since its offensive against the country's last rebel enclave in December. Refugee fears The cash-strapped government had been keen to fully secure the M5, a highway that connects Syria's four main cities and passes through Saraqeb. The Syrian Observatory said the airstrikes were carried out by Assad government ally Russia, heavily criticised by the West for the high civilian death toll from its bombing campaign. State media accused the "terrorists" of launching car bombings and other suicide attacks against government forces attempting to retake the town. It said the army had inflicted heavy losses on the attackers, despite the military support it said they had received from Turkey. Some 950,0000 civilians have fled the government offensive, raising fears in Ankara of a new influx of refugees. Turkey already hosts the world's largest number of Syrian refugees — around 3.6 million people — placing an increasingly unpopular burden on public services. The country's ruling party spokesman Omer Celik told CNN Turk broadcaster Friday Ankara was not in a position to "hold" refugees any longer and called on the European Union to do more. More than half a million of those displaced since December are children, tens of thousands of whom are sleeping rough in northern Syria's harsh winter. UN powerlessness The Turkish president vowed Wednesday Ankara would not take the "smallest step back" in the standoff with Damascus and Moscow over Idlib. Erdogan warned the Syrian government to "stop its attacks as soon as possible" and to pull back by the end of the month. The UN has repeatedly warned the fighting in Idlib could potentially create the most serious humanitarian crisis since the civil war's start in 2011. Nine out of 15 members of the Security Council on Wednesday urged Secretary-General Antonio Guterres to step up his involvement in efforts to restore peace in Idlib. Russian vetoes, often backed by China, have chronically crippled UN action in Syria.

33 Turkish soldiers killed in airstrike by Syrian regime forces in Idlib

Hundreds of migrants in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/33-turkish-soldiers-killed-in-airstrike-by-syrian-regime-forces-in-idlib-283217">Turkey</a> were heading towards border regions with Europe, local media reported Friday after reports said Turkish authorities had "opened the gates".

The movement of people came after 33 Turkish soldiers were killed in the northwestern Syrian province of Idlib in an airstrike on Thursday blamed on Damascus.

Pro-government daily Sabah said the decision to "open the border gates" was taken following an emergency meeting chaired by President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/33-turkish-soldiers-killed-in-airstrike-by-syrian-regime-forces-in-idlib-283217">Recep Tayyip Erdogan</a> on Thursday.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/33-turkish-soldiers-killed-in-airstrike-by-syrian-regime-forces-in-idlib-283217">33 Turkish soldiers killed in airstrike by Syrian regime forces in Idlib</a>

Nearly 300 migrants arrived in Edirne province on the border with Greece in a bid to go to Europe, the private DHA news agency reported.

The group included Syrians, Iranians, Iraqis, Moroccans and Pakistanis, who told the agency they had come to the border after hearing the news about the soldiers.

Another group of migrants arrived at the coast of Ayvacik in Canakkale, western Turkey, and wanted to go to Lesbos by boats after reading reports of an "open-door policy", DHA reported.

The agency published images of people carrying their belongings, walking in the dead of night in Edirne and Canakkale.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/two-turkish-troops-killed-in-syrias-idlib-defence-ministry-283030">Two Turkish troops killed in Syria's Idlib: Defence ministry</a>

Some 32 soldiers were also injured after the airstrike in Idlib, blamed on Damascus, the governor of Turkish border province Hatay said.

Turkey has 12 observation posts in Idlib as part of a 2018 deal with Russia to prevent a regime offensive.

But in recent months, Syrian President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/33-turkish-soldiers-killed-in-airstrike-by-syrian-regime-forces-in-idlib-283217">Bashar al-Assad</a> has pushed an assault to retake the last rebel bastion backed by Russian airstrikes, killing hundreds of civilians.

Hundreds of thousands more Syrians in Idlib have been forced to flee their homes and head towards the Turkish border.

Turkey, which is already home to around 3.6 million Syrian refugees, fears more people arriving in the country where there is growing popular discontent towards refugees.

"We said we could not handle the pressure of newly-arrived refugees," Erdogan's ruling party spokesman Omer Celik told CNN Turk broadcaster early Friday.

"Our refugee policy remains the same but there is a situation at hand and we are not in a position to hold this," Celik said.

"There is only one thing the European Union can do and that is help the Turkish republic," he added.

Erdogan previously threatened to open the gates to Europe late last year as he sought more international support.

Hundreds of migrants in Turkey were heading towards border regions with Europe, local media reported Friday after reports said Turkish authorities had "opened the gates".

Hundreds of migrants in Turkey were heading towards border regions with Europe, local media reported Friday after reports said Turkish authorities had "opened the gates". The movement of people came after 33 Turkish soldiers were killed in the northwestern Syrian province of Idlib in an airstrike on Thursday blamed on Damascus. Pro-government daily Sabah said the decision to "open the border gates" was taken following an emergency meeting chaired by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Thursday. Also read: 33 Turkish soldiers killed in airstrike by Syrian regime forces in Idlib Nearly 300 migrants arrived in Edirne province on the border with Greece in a bid to go to Europe, the private DHA news agency reported. The group included Syrians, Iranians, Iraqis, Moroccans and Pakistanis, who told the agency they had come to the border after hearing the news about the soldiers. Another group of migrants arrived at the coast of Ayvacik in Canakkale, western Turkey, and wanted to go to Lesbos by boats after reading reports of an "open-door policy", DHA reported. The agency published images of people carrying their belongings, walking in the dead of night in Edirne and Canakkale. Also read: Two Turkish troops killed in Syria's Idlib: Defence ministry Some 32 soldiers were also injured after the airstrike in Idlib, blamed on Damascus, the governor of Turkish border province Hatay said. Turkey has 12 observation posts in Idlib as part of a 2018 deal with Russia to prevent a regime offensive. But in recent months, Syrian President Bashar al-Assad has pushed an assault to retake the last rebel bastion backed by Russian airstrikes, killing hundreds of civilians. Hundreds of thousands more Syrians in Idlib have been forced to flee their homes and head towards the Turkish border. Turkey, which is already home to around 3.6 million Syrian refugees, fears more people arriving in the country where there is growing popular discontent towards refugees. "We said we could not handle the pressure of newly-arrived refugees," Erdogan's ruling party spokesman Omer Celik told CNN Turk broadcaster early Friday. "Our refugee policy remains the same but there is a situation at hand and we are not in a position to hold this," Celik said. "There is only one thing the European Union can do and that is help the Turkish republic," he added. Erdogan previously threatened to open the gates to Europe late last year as he sought more international support.

Hundreds head towards Europe border after reports claim that Turkey 'opens gates'

Russia on Friday said it was sending two warships armed with cruise missiles to waters off the Syrian coast and blamed Ankara for the killing of 33 Turkish soldiers in Syria's Idlib region the previous day.

The killing of the Turkish soldiers on Thursday and the wounding of 32 others, announced by the governor in Turkey's Hatay province bordering Syria, raised the Turkish military death toll in the region to 54 this month.

Turkey has sent thousands of troops and heavy military hardware into Syria and Erdogan has warned that Turkey will launch a full-scale offensive to repel Syrian forces unless they pull back from Turkish observation posts in the region.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/33-turkish-soldiers-killed-in-airstrike-by-syrian-regime-forces-in-idlib-283217">33 Turkish soldiers killed in airstrike by Syrian regime forces in Idlib</a>

Though trying to coordinate their efforts on Syria, Russia backs Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, while Turkey backs rebel forces opposing Assad.

Responding to Thursday's killings, a senior Turkish official said on Friday that Ankara would no longer stop Syrian refugees from reaching Europe. Turkey blamed an airstrike by Syrian government forces for the deaths.

Russia's Defence Ministry was cited by the RIA news agency on Friday however as saying that the Turkish troops had been hit by artillery fire from Syrian government forces who were trying to repel an offensive by rebel forces.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hundreds-head-towards-europe-border-after-reports-turkey-opens-gates-283266">Hundreds head towards Europe border after reports Turkey 'opens gates'</a>

It was quoted as saying that Ankara had failed to notify Moscow of the presence of Turkish troops in the area hit by shelling despite being in regular communication with the Russian military.

The Turkish troops had been deployed directly alongside anti-government rebels, the ministry was cited as saying. But according to information provided by Turkey, there were no Turkish troops in the area and Russia said that Turkish forces "shouldn't have been there."

Russian warplanes did not carry out any airstrikes in the area at the time of the incident and Moscow did everything it could to help once it learnt of the Turkish troop presence, the ministry was cited as saying.

That included ensuring Syrian forces stopped shelling to allow Turkey to evacuate it's dead and wounded.

Separately, and as tensions between Ankara and Damascus rose, Russia's Black Sea Fleet was cited by the Interfax news agency on Friday as saying it was sending two warships equipped with Kalibr cruise missiles to waters off the Syrian coast.

Russia on Friday said it was sending two warships armed with cruise missiles to waters off the Syrian coast and blamed Ankara for the killing of 33 Turkish soldiers in Syria's Idlib region the previous day.

Russia on Friday said it was sending two warships armed with cruise missiles to waters off the Syrian coast and blamed Ankara for the killing of 33 Turkish soldiers in Syria's Idlib region the previous day. The killing of the Turkish soldiers on Thursday and the wounding of 32 others, announced by the governor in Turkey's Hatay province bordering Syria, raised the Turkish military death toll in the region to 54 this month. Turkey has sent thousands of troops and heavy military hardware into Syria and Erdogan has warned that Turkey will launch a full-scale offensive to repel Syrian forces unless they pull back from Turkish observation posts in the region. Also read: 33 Turkish soldiers killed in airstrike by Syrian regime forces in Idlib Though trying to coordinate their efforts on Syria, Russia backs Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, while Turkey backs rebel forces opposing Assad. Responding to Thursday's killings, a senior Turkish official said on Friday that Ankara would no longer stop Syrian refugees from reaching Europe. Turkey blamed an airstrike by Syrian government forces for the deaths. Russia's Defence Ministry was cited by the RIA news agency on Friday however as saying that the Turkish troops had been hit by artillery fire from Syrian government forces who were trying to repel an offensive by rebel forces. Also read: Hundreds head towards Europe border after reports Turkey 'opens gates' It was quoted as saying that Ankara had failed to notify Moscow of the presence of Turkish troops in the area hit by shelling despite being in regular communication with the Russian military. The Turkish troops had been deployed directly alongside anti-government rebels, the ministry was cited as saying. But according to information provided by Turkey, there were no Turkish troops in the area and Russia said that Turkish forces "shouldn't have been there." Russian warplanes did not carry out any airstrikes in the area at the time of the incident and Moscow did everything it could to help once it learnt of the Turkish troop presence, the ministry was cited as saying. That included ensuring Syrian forces stopped shelling to allow Turkey to evacuate it's dead and wounded. Separately, and as tensions between Ankara and Damascus rose, Russia's Black Sea Fleet was cited by the Interfax news agency on Friday as saying it was sending two warships equipped with Kalibr cruise missiles to waters off the Syrian coast.

Russia sends warships to Syria, blames Ankara for killing of Turkish troops

Two Turkish soldiers have been killed and two others wounded in an airstrike in&nbsp;Syria's northwestern province of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/idlib-fighting-turkey-defence-minister-threatens-to-activate-s-400-missiles-against-russia-281961">Idlib</a>, the defence ministry said on Thursday.&nbsp;

Turkey, which supports several rebel groups in the area, immediately responded to the attack by hitting Syrian "regime targets", the ministry said on Twitter.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/erdogan-rules-out-smallest-step-back-in-syrias-idlib-282938">Erdogan rules out 'smallest step back' in Syria's Idlib</a>

The latest casualties have brought the number of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/erdogan-rules-out-smallest-step-back-in-syrias-idlib-282938">Turkish security</a> personnel killed in regime fire in Idlib this month to 19. &nbsp;

Damascus backed by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/idlib-fighting-turkey-defence-minister-threatens-to-activate-s-400-missiles-against-russia-281961">Russian airstrikes </a>has pressed an offensive to take back the last rebel bastion of Idlib.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/idlib-fighting-turkey-defence-minister-threatens-to-activate-s-400-missiles-against-russia-281961">Idlib fighting: Turkey defence minister threatens to activate S-400 missiles against Russia</a>

Hundreds of thousands of people have been forced to flee their homes since December in the largest displacement since the civil war in&nbsp;Syria&nbsp;broke out almost nine years ago.

The attacks on Turkish forces have caused strains between the regime's key ally <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/idlib-fighting-turkey-defence-minister-threatens-to-activate-s-400-missiles-against-russia-281961">Russia</a> and Turkey.

Ankara urged the regime to pull back by the end of February from behind its military posts in Idlib.&nbsp;

Russian diplomats and military officials were due to hold the second round of negotiations with their Turkish counterparts on Thursday.&nbsp;

Two Turkish soldiers have been killed and two others wounded in an airstrike in Syria's northwestern province of Idlib, the defence ministry said on Thursday. Turkey, which supports several rebel groups in the area, immediately responded to the attack by hitting Syrian "regime targets", the ministry said on Twitter.

Two Turkish soldiers have been killed and two others wounded in an airstrike in Syria's northwestern province of Idlib, the defence ministry said on Thursday. Turkey, which supports several rebel groups in the area, immediately responded to the attack by hitting Syrian "regime targets", the ministry said on Twitter. Also read: Erdogan rules out 'smallest step back' in Syria's Idlib The latest casualties have brought the number of Turkish security personnel killed in regime fire in Idlib this month to 19. Damascus backed by Russian airstrikes has pressed an offensive to take back the last rebel bastion of Idlib. Also read: Idlib fighting: Turkey defence minister threatens to activate S-400 missiles against Russia Hundreds of thousands of people have been forced to flee their homes since December in the largest displacement since the civil war in Syria broke out almost nine years ago. The attacks on Turkish forces have caused strains between the regime's key ally Russia and Turkey. Ankara urged the regime to pull back by the end of February from behind its military posts in Idlib. Russian diplomats and military officials were due to hold the second round of negotiations with their Turkish counterparts on Thursday.

Two Turkish troops killed in Syria's Idlib: Defence ministry

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Wednesday vowed Turkey would not take the "smallest step back" in an<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/erdogan-to-hold-syria-summit-with-russia-france-and-germany-282161"> escalating stand-off with Damascus and Russia</a> over the northern Syrian region of Idlib.

Meanwhile, a meeting between Erdogan and his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, is expected to take place, the Turkish foreign minister, ahead of a possible summit including EU heavyweights Germany and France to find a political solution to the Idlib crisis.

"We will not take a smallest step back in Idlib, we will certainly push the regime outside the borders we designated, and ensure the return of the people to their homes," Erdogan told ruling party's lawmakers in parliament in Ankara.

As part of deals with Russia -- a key supporter of President Bashar al-Assad -- rebel backer Turkey has 12 observation posts in Idlib but several have come under fire from Assad forces.

Ankara has confirmed as many as 17 Turkish security personnel have been killed this month alone.

Erdogan bluntly warned the Syrian regime to "stop its attacks as soon as possible" and to pull back by the end of February.

"The time we have given to those who besieged our observation towers is running out," Erdogan said.

"We are planning to save those of our observation posts from the besiegers one way or another by the end of this month."

Erdogan added that "the biggest problem we currently have is that we cannot use the air space" over Idlib which is controlled by Russia.

"God willing, we will find a solution soon."

Advance of Assad forces

In recent weeks, Damascus backed by Russian air strikes has pressed a major offensive against the remaining territory held by jihadists and Turkish-backed rebels in Idlib.

In a statement read on public television, the Syrian army on Wednesday announced it had "regained control" of a dozen of areas in recent days, including&nbsp; Kafranbel in the south of Idlib, a town known to have been among the first to rebel against Damascus. &nbsp;

The army vowed to "liberate the territories of the Syrian Arab Republic from terrorism and its supporters."

Idlib hosts more than three million people -- half of them already displaced by violence elsewhere and the United Nations has warned against an imminent "bloodbath" amid the contiuing fighting.

Putin, Erdogan meeting?

Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu was quoted as saying on state-run TRT tv, that as a first step, "what President Erdogan and Putin have agreed is to come together at a bilateral format."

While backing opposite sides, Russia and Turkey have worked to end the conflict but strains have soared in recent weeks over Idlib.

The tensions are seen as the biggest threat to Ankara-Moscow ties since Turkey shot down a Russian warplane over Syria in November 2015.

The Kremlin indicated Tuesday however, that an Erdogan-Putin meeting was not on the cards, also saying that a tripartite summit with another regime ally Iran could be planned instead of a multilateral one with France and Germany.

A Russian delegation was due to hold another round of talks with Turkish officials in Ankara Wednesday.

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Wednesday vowed Turkey would not take the "smallest step back" in an escalating stand-off with Damascus and Russia over the northern Syrian region of Idlib.

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Wednesday vowed Turkey would not take the "smallest step back" in an escalating stand-off with Damascus and Russia over the northern Syrian region of Idlib. Meanwhile, a meeting between Erdogan and his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, is expected to take place, the Turkish foreign minister, ahead of a possible summit including EU heavyweights Germany and France to find a political solution to the Idlib crisis. "We will not take a smallest step back in Idlib, we will certainly push the regime outside the borders we designated, and ensure the return of the people to their homes," Erdogan told ruling party's lawmakers in parliament in Ankara. As part of deals with Russia -- a key supporter of President Bashar al-Assad -- rebel backer Turkey has 12 observation posts in Idlib but several have come under fire from Assad forces. Ankara has confirmed as many as 17 Turkish security personnel have been killed this month alone. Erdogan bluntly warned the Syrian regime to "stop its attacks as soon as possible" and to pull back by the end of February. "The time we have given to those who besieged our observation towers is running out," Erdogan said. "We are planning to save those of our observation posts from the besiegers one way or another by the end of this month." Erdogan added that "the biggest problem we currently have is that we cannot use the air space" over Idlib which is controlled by Russia. "God willing, we will find a solution soon." Advance of Assad forces In recent weeks, Damascus backed by Russian air strikes has pressed a major offensive against the remaining territory held by jihadists and Turkish-backed rebels in Idlib. In a statement read on public television, the Syrian army on Wednesday announced it had "regained control" of a dozen of areas in recent days, including Kafranbel in the south of Idlib, a town known to have been among the first to rebel against Damascus. The army vowed to "liberate the territories of the Syrian Arab Republic from terrorism and its supporters." Idlib hosts more than three million people -- half of them already displaced by violence elsewhere and the United Nations has warned against an imminent "bloodbath" amid the contiuing fighting. Putin, Erdogan meeting? Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu was quoted as saying on state-run TRT tv, that as a first step, "what President Erdogan and Putin have agreed is to come together at a bilateral format." While backing opposite sides, Russia and Turkey have worked to end the conflict but strains have soared in recent weeks over Idlib. The tensions are seen as the biggest threat to Ankara-Moscow ties since Turkey shot down a Russian warplane over Syria in November 2015. The Kremlin indicated Tuesday however, that an Erdogan-Putin meeting was not on the cards, also saying that a tripartite summit with another regime ally Iran could be planned instead of a multilateral one with France and Germany. A Russian delegation was due to hold another round of talks with Turkish officials in Ankara Wednesday.

Erdogan rules out 'smallest step back' in Syria's Idlib

Turkey's Erdogan speaks to Russian president Putin and asked him to halt the Syrian regime offensive. Putin said he is seriously concerned by rebel actions. Whereas the united nations call for immediate end to the conflict.

Fight for Idlib intensifies, millions of people displaced

The United Nations warned on Friday that fighting in northwest Syria could "end in a bloodbath" and called again for a ceasefire, while Moscow denied reports of a mass flight of civilians from a Russian-led Syrian government offensive.

Syrian troops backed by Russian air power have been battling since December to eliminate the last rebel strongholds in the region in a war that has killed an estimated 400,000 Syrians, displaced millions more and left much of the country in ruins.

The latest offensive in the regions of Aleppo and Idlib has uprooted nearly 1 million people - most of them women and children - who have fled clashes to seek sanctuary further north, near the Turkish border.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-russia-discuss-joint-patrols-option-in-syrias-idlib-official-281805">Turkey, Russia discuss joint patrols option in Syria's Idlib</a>

The UN's humanitarian agency OCHA said 60% of the 900,000 people trapped in a shrinking space after fleeing are children.

"We call for an immediate ceasefire to prevent further suffering and what we fear may end in a bloodbath," OCHA spokesman Jens Laerke told a news briefing in Geneva.

"The front lines and relentless violence continue to move closer to these areas which are packed with displaced people, with bombardments increasingly affecting displacement sites and their vicinity."

At a university building in the town of Azaz in northwest Syria, people fleeing Idlib have poured in every day to shelter from the violence and bitter cold.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/explained-turkeys-role-in-the-syrian-civil-war-281781">Explained - Turkey's role in the Syrian civil war</a>

Souad Saleh, 58, is staying in a room with her family and dozens of other people. "We want to go back home but we can't. We left things behind because the warplanes were above us and houses were collapsing," she said.

The escape was exhausting. "Everyone was crying," the grandmother recalled, bursting into tears.

Hayat al-Fayad, 50, said her village in Idlib had emptied out since her family ran from the bombing some two weeks ago. "The entire village fled," she said.

Other families are sleeping outside by roads and in olive groves, burning garbage to stay warm. Some children have died from the cold, while some families have at least reached tent camps for displaced people.

Turkey, which currently hosts 3.7 million Syrian refugees, has said it cannot handle a new influx and has warned that it will use military power to repel Syrian advances in Idlib and ease a humanitarian crisis.

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Russia denies humanitarian emergency

Russia's Defence Ministry said reports of hundreds of thousands of Syrians fleeing from Idlib towards the Turkish border - in an area where Turkish forces maintain forward observation posts - were false, urging Ankara to enable Idlib residents to enter other parts of Syria.

Turkey and Russia back opposing sides in Syria's conflict, but have collaborated towards a political solution. Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's onslaught in the northwest has upset this fragile cooperation, causing Ankara and Moscow to accuse each other of flouting de-escalation agreements in the region.

Turkish and Russian officials have failed to find a solution to the clashes in several rounds of talks, and a flare-up on the ground on Thursday which killed two Turkish soldiers brought the total Turkish fatalities in Idlib this month to 15 troops.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-to-cope-with-war-trauma-syrian-father-and-daughter-turn-bombing-sounds-into-rosy-game-281650">To cope with war trauma, Syrian father and daughter turn bombing sounds into rosy game</a>

Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan said he would speak by phone with Russia's Vladimir Putin on Friday at 1500 GMT and, based on those talks, determine Turkey's stance on the conflict.

Speaking to reporters, Erdogan said the French and German leaders had proposed a four-way summit with Russia in Istanbul on March 5, but that Putin had not yet responded. He repeated that Turkey was not withdrawing its forces from Idlib.

Erdogan further said Turkey was continuing work to set up housing for Syrian migrants in a 30-35 km (19-22 mile) "safe zone" inside Syria along the border with Turkey.

Earlier on Friday, the Kremlin said it was discussing the possibility of holding the summit with Turkey, France and Germany mentioned by Erdogan.

The German and French leaders called Putin on Thursday to voice alarm about the humanitarian situation.

French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Angela Merkel also held a phone call with Erdogan, who asked Paris and Berlin for concrete support in the crisis.

The United Nations warned on Friday that fighting in northwest Syria could "end in a bloodbath" and called again for a ceasefire, while Moscow denied reports of a mass flight of civilians from a Russian-led Syrian government offensive.

The United Nations warned on Friday that fighting in northwest Syria could "end in a bloodbath" and called again for a ceasefire, while Moscow denied reports of a mass flight of civilians from a Russian-led Syrian government offensive. Syrian troops backed by Russian air power have been battling since December to eliminate the last rebel strongholds in the region in a war that has killed an estimated 400,000 Syrians, displaced millions more and left much of the country in ruins. The latest offensive in the regions of Aleppo and Idlib has uprooted nearly 1 million people - most of them women and children - who have fled clashes to seek sanctuary further north, near the Turkish border. Also read: Turkey, Russia discuss joint patrols option in Syria's Idlib The UN's humanitarian agency OCHA said 60% of the 900,000 people trapped in a shrinking space after fleeing are children. "We call for an immediate ceasefire to prevent further suffering and what we fear may end in a bloodbath," OCHA spokesman Jens Laerke told a news briefing in Geneva. "The front lines and relentless violence continue to move closer to these areas which are packed with displaced people, with bombardments increasingly affecting displacement sites and their vicinity." At a university building in the town of Azaz in northwest Syria, people fleeing Idlib have poured in every day to shelter from the violence and bitter cold. Also read: Explained - Turkey's role in the Syrian civil war Souad Saleh, 58, is staying in a room with her family and dozens of other people. "We want to go back home but we can't. We left things behind because the warplanes were above us and houses were collapsing," she said. The escape was exhausting. "Everyone was crying," the grandmother recalled, bursting into tears. Hayat al-Fayad, 50, said her village in Idlib had emptied out since her family ran from the bombing some two weeks ago. "The entire village fled," she said. Other families are sleeping outside by roads and in olive groves, burning garbage to stay warm. Some children have died from the cold, while some families have at least reached tent camps for displaced people. Turkey, which currently hosts 3.7 million Syrian refugees, has said it cannot handle a new influx and has warned that it will use military power to repel Syrian advances in Idlib and ease a humanitarian crisis. × Russia denies humanitarian emergency Russia's Defence Ministry said reports of hundreds of thousands of Syrians fleeing from Idlib towards the Turkish border - in an area where Turkish forces maintain forward observation posts - were false, urging Ankara to enable Idlib residents to enter other parts of Syria. Turkey and Russia back opposing sides in Syria's conflict, but have collaborated towards a political solution. Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's onslaught in the northwest has upset this fragile cooperation, causing Ankara and Moscow to accuse each other of flouting de-escalation agreements in the region. Turkish and Russian officials have failed to find a solution to the clashes in several rounds of talks, and a flare-up on the ground on Thursday which killed two Turkish soldiers brought the total Turkish fatalities in Idlib this month to 15 troops. Also read: To cope with war trauma, Syrian father and daughter turn bombing sounds into rosy game Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan said he would speak by phone with Russia's Vladimir Putin on Friday at 1500 GMT and, based on those talks, determine Turkey's stance on the conflict. Speaking to reporters, Erdogan said the French and German leaders had proposed a four-way summit with Russia in Istanbul on March 5, but that Putin had not yet responded. He repeated that Turkey was not withdrawing its forces from Idlib. Erdogan further said Turkey was continuing work to set up housing for Syrian migrants in a 30-35 km (19-22 mile) "safe zone" inside Syria along the border with Turkey. Earlier on Friday, the Kremlin said it was discussing the possibility of holding the summit with Turkey, France and Germany mentioned by Erdogan. The German and French leaders called Putin on Thursday to voice alarm about the humanitarian situation. French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Angela Merkel also held a phone call with Erdogan, who asked Paris and Berlin for concrete support in the crisis.

UN says it fears 'bloodbath' in northwest Syria, Russia denies mass displacements

<div>Turkish President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/idlib-fighting-turkey-defence-minister-threatens-to-activate-s-400-missiles-against-russia-281961">Recep Tayyip Erdogan</a> called for "concrete action" to prevent a crisis in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/idlib-fighting-turkey-defence-minister-threatens-to-activate-s-400-missiles-against-russia-281961">Syria</a>'s last rebel stronghold in a phone call with his French and German counterparts, his office said Friday.</div>

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<div>A humanitarian crisis has unfolded in the northwestern province of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/idlib-fighting-turkey-defence-minister-threatens-to-activate-s-400-missiles-against-russia-281961">Idlib </a>as the Syrian regime, backed by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/idlib-fighting-turkey-defence-minister-threatens-to-activate-s-400-missiles-against-russia-281961">Russian air strikes</a>, presses on with an offensive that has forced nearly one million civilians to flee their homes.</div>

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Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/idlib-fighting-turkey-defence-minister-threatens-to-activate-s-400-missiles-against-russia-281961"> Idlib fighting: Turkey defence minister threatens to activate S-400 missiles against Russia</a>

"The president stressed the need to stop the aggression of the regime and its supporters in Idlib, and emphasised the importance of providing strong support through concrete actions to prevent a humanitarian crisis," the presidency said following the call with German Chancellor Angela Merkel and French President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/emmanuel-macrons-lieutenant-benjamin-griveaux-out-of-paris-mayoral-race-for-sexting-280720">Emmanuel Macron</a>.
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<div>Merkel and Macron spoke by phone on Thursday with Russian President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/turkey-russia-talks-on-syrias-idlib-inconclusive-280239">Vladimir Putin</a>, calling for the fighting to end and seeking a four-way summit including Erdogan.</div>

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<div>A Kremlin spokesman told reporters on Friday that "the possibility of holding a summit is under discussion", adding that there was still no clear decision.</div>

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Watch: Turkey-Russia talks on Syria's Idlib inconclusive

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<div>Turkey has lost 16 military personnel in Idlib this month in clashes with Syrian forces, and has bolstered its positions while calling for regime troops to pull back.</div>

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<div>It is determined to prevent a fresh influx of displaced people adding to the 3.6 million Syrian refugees it already hosts.</div>

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<div>Erdogan also addressed the conflict in Libya with Merkel and Macron, saying they should work together.</div>

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<div>Libya has been mired in chaos since 2011 when a NATO-backed uprising led to the killing of longtime dictator Moamer Kadhafi.</div>

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<div>Moscow backs military strongman Khalifa Haftar, who launched an offensive last April against the rival government in Tripoli, which Turkey supports.</div>

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<div>France has publicly denied taking sides in the conflict but analysts say it supports Haftar alongside Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.</div>

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<div>After a recent peace conference in Berlin, countries including Russia, Turkey, France and Egypt agreed to end foreign interference in Libya and respect a UN arms embargo, but violations have continued.</div>

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Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan called for "concrete action" to prevent a crisis in Syria's last rebel stronghold in a phone call with his French and German counterparts, his office said Friday.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan called for "concrete action" to prevent a crisis in Syria's last rebel stronghold in a phone call with his French and German counterparts, his office said Friday. A humanitarian crisis has unfolded in the northwestern province of Idlib as the Syrian regime, backed by Russian air strikes, presses on with an offensive that has forced nearly one million civilians to flee their homes. Also read: Idlib fighting: Turkey defence minister threatens to activate S-400 missiles against Russia "The president stressed the need to stop the aggression of the regime and its supporters in Idlib, and emphasised the importance of providing strong support through concrete actions to prevent a humanitarian crisis," the presidency said following the call with German Chancellor Angela Merkel and French President Emmanuel Macron. Merkel and Macron spoke by phone on Thursday with Russian President Vladimir Putin, calling for the fighting to end and seeking a four-way summit including Erdogan. A Kremlin spokesman told reporters on Friday that "the possibility of holding a summit is under discussion", adding that there was still no clear decision. Watch: Turkey-Russia talks on Syria's Idlib inconclusive Turkey has lost 16 military personnel in Idlib this month in clashes with Syrian forces, and has bolstered its positions while calling for regime troops to pull back. It is determined to prevent a fresh influx of displaced people adding to the 3.6 million Syrian refugees it already hosts. Erdogan also addressed the conflict in Libya with Merkel and Macron, saying they should work together. Libya has been mired in chaos since 2011 when a NATO-backed uprising led to the killing of longtime dictator Moamer Kadhafi. Moscow backs military strongman Khalifa Haftar, who launched an offensive last April against the rival government in Tripoli, which Turkey supports. France has publicly denied taking sides in the conflict but analysts say it supports Haftar alongside Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. After a recent peace conference in Berlin, countries including Russia, Turkey, France and Egypt agreed to end foreign interference in Libya and respect a UN arms embargo, but violations have continued.

Turkish President Erdogan urges 'concrete action' over Idlib crisis

Turkey and Russia are discussing possible joint patrols as one way to reach a deal to halt fighting and stem an exodus of civilians in Syria's Idlib region, a Turkish official said on Thursday, a day after Ankara threatened military action to push back Syrian government forces.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/syrian-forces-consolidate-control-of-aleppo-air-strikes-under-way-281363">Also read: Syrian forces consolidate control of Aleppo, air strikes under way</a>

Turkey and Russia, which back opposing sides in the nine-year-old conflict, have failed to reach an agreement after two rounds of talks in the last two weeks.

A Syrian government offensive to eradicate the last rebel strongholds in northwest Syria has led to some of the most serious confrontations yet between NATO member Ankara and Damascus, and prompted Turkey to send thousands of troops and convoys of heavy weapons to the border area.

Turkey has taken in about 3.7 million Syrian refugees since the war started and says it cannot handle any more over its border, whch is now closed. The United Nations says <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/900000-people-displaced-by-fighting-in-northwest-syria-since-december-un-281225">more than 900,000 people, mostly women and children, have fled their homes in Idlib</a> since early December.

The Turkish official said the talks with Russia had not been "completely without a result". The discussions had moved forward but reached no final decision, said the official, speaking on condition of anonymity.

"Russia has maintained its position that Turkey withdraws from Idlib and evacuates its observation posts since the beginning. Withdrawing from Idlib or evacuating the observation posts is not on the agenda."

"Various exercises are being discussed. For example, ensuring security through Turkish and Russian security officials and holding joint patrols could be possible," the official said, adding that both Ankara and Moscow expected their presidents to "end the issue".

Turkey, which backs rebels trying to oust Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, has threatened to use military power to drive back Syrian forces advancing in Idlib unless they withdraw by the end of the month. On Wednesday, President Tayyip Erdogan said a Turkish offensive into Idlib was a "matter of time".

Ankara and Moscow have accused each other of flouting a 2018 de-escalation agreement that allowed Turkey and Russia to set up military observation posts in Idlib.

Turkey has said some of its posts in Idlib were surrounded by Syrian government forces, but that it would not evacuate the positions or move them. On Tuesday, presidential spokesman Ibrahim Kalin said Turkey had rejected alternative maps offered by Russia during talks.

Earlier on Thursday, Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said there had been some rapprochement with Russia in their talks on Idlib but that they were still not at the desired levels.

"There is no such thing as the Russians imposing a map on us, we exchanged documents presenting our respective positions," Cavusoglu told state broadcaster TRT Haber.

Russia, which backs Assad, has said a Turkish offensive into Idlib would be the "worst-case scenario" and that Russia would work to prevent the situation there from worsening. Iran, which also backs Assad, has said it was ready to mediate between Syria and Turkey if necessary.

The official said Turkey, Russia and Iran planned to meet in Tehran early next month to further discuss Syria, including the developments in Idlib. A Russian delegation may come to Ankara before that to evaluate progress made on Idlib, the person said.

Turkey and Russia are discussing possible joint patrols as one way to reach a deal to halt fighting and stem an exodus of civilians in Syria's Idlib region, a Turkish official said on Thursday, a day after Ankara threatened military action to push back Syrian government forces.

Turkey and Russia are discussing possible joint patrols as one way to reach a deal to halt fighting and stem an exodus of civilians in Syria's Idlib region, a Turkish official said on Thursday, a day after Ankara threatened military action to push back Syrian government forces. Also read: Syrian forces consolidate control of Aleppo, air strikes under way Turkey and Russia, which back opposing sides in the nine-year-old conflict, have failed to reach an agreement after two rounds of talks in the last two weeks. A Syrian government offensive to eradicate the last rebel strongholds in northwest Syria has led to some of the most serious confrontations yet between NATO member Ankara and Damascus, and prompted Turkey to send thousands of troops and convoys of heavy weapons to the border area. Turkey has taken in about 3.7 million Syrian refugees since the war started and says it cannot handle any more over its border, whch is now closed. The United Nations says more than 900,000 people, mostly women and children, have fled their homes in Idlib since early December. The Turkish official said the talks with Russia had not been "completely without a result". The discussions had moved forward but reached no final decision, said the official, speaking on condition of anonymity. "Russia has maintained its position that Turkey withdraws from Idlib and evacuates its observation posts since the beginning. Withdrawing from Idlib or evacuating the observation posts is not on the agenda." "Various exercises are being discussed. For example, ensuring security through Turkish and Russian security officials and holding joint patrols could be possible," the official said, adding that both Ankara and Moscow expected their presidents to "end the issue". Turkey, which backs rebels trying to oust Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, has threatened to use military power to drive back Syrian forces advancing in Idlib unless they withdraw by the end of the month. On Wednesday, President Tayyip Erdogan said a Turkish offensive into Idlib was a "matter of time". Ankara and Moscow have accused each other of flouting a 2018 de-escalation agreement that allowed Turkey and Russia to set up military observation posts in Idlib. Turkey has said some of its posts in Idlib were surrounded by Syrian government forces, but that it would not evacuate the positions or move them. On Tuesday, presidential spokesman Ibrahim Kalin said Turkey had rejected alternative maps offered by Russia during talks. Earlier on Thursday, Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said there had been some rapprochement with Russia in their talks on Idlib but that they were still not at the desired levels. "There is no such thing as the Russians imposing a map on us, we exchanged documents presenting our respective positions," Cavusoglu told state broadcaster TRT Haber. Russia, which backs Assad, has said a Turkish offensive into Idlib would be the "worst-case scenario" and that Russia would work to prevent the situation there from worsening. Iran, which also backs Assad, has said it was ready to mediate between Syria and Turkey if necessary. The official said Turkey, Russia and Iran planned to meet in Tehran early next month to further discuss Syria, including the developments in Idlib. A Russian delegation may come to Ankara before that to evaluate progress made on Idlib, the person said.

Turkey, Russia discuss joint patrols option in Syria's Idlib: Official

Turkish<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/latest-world-news-erdogan-says-russia-managing-libya-war-at-highest-level-280933"> President Tayyip Erdogan</a> said on Wednesday talks with Russia on the conflict in Syria's northwestern Idlib province were far from meeting Turkey's demands and he said a military operation there was a "matter of time".

Turkey and Russia back opposing sides in the nine-year-old Syrian conflict but have collaborated towards finding a political solution to end it.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/erdogan-threatens-damascus-slams-moscow-over-idlib-massacre-280294">Erdogan threatens Damascus, slams Moscow over Idlib 'massacre'</a>

However, a Syrian government offensive in Idlib has upset the fragile cooperation after 13 Turkish troops were killed in Syrian attacks earlier this month.

Ankara has urged Moscow, which backs Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, to stop the attacks in Idlib, saying the offensive was causing a migrant wave towards Turkey, which currently hosts 3.6 million Syrian refugees.

Watch: Erdogan's plans to dominate the Muslim world

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Erdogan has previously said Turkey may use military force to drive back Syrian forces unless they pull back by the end of the month.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/erdogan-battles-on-multiple-fronts-in-risky-regional-power-bid-280217">Erdogan battles on multiple fronts in risky regional power bid</a>

Speaking to lawmakers from his ruling AK Party, Erdogan said Turkey was determined to make Idlib a secure zone "no matter the cost", even as talks continue with Russia. Several rounds of talks with Moscow had failed to reach an agreement, he said.

"We are entering the last days for the (Syrian) regime to stop its hostility in Idlib. We are making our final warnings," Erdogan said. "We did not reach the desired results in our talks (with Russia). The talks will continue, but it is true that we are far from meeting our demands at the table," he said.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-takes-strong-exception-to-turkish-president-erdogans-comments-on-kashmir-280785">India takes strong exception to Turkish President Erdogan's comments on Kashmir&nbsp;</a>

"Turkey has made every preparation to carry out its own operational plans. I say that we can come at any point. In other words, the Idlib offensive is only a matter of time."

Ankara and Moscow signed an agreement in 2018 to establish a de-escalation zone in Idlib, allowing both sides to also set up military observation posts in the region. Since the escalation of violence in the region, both sides have accused each other of flouting the agreement.

Turkish and Russian officials held several rounds of talks in Ankara and Moscow. The foreign ministers Turkey and Russia also met at the weekend, but failed to find a solution. Erdogan has said Turkey has given the Syrian forces until the end of February to withdraw from Idlib.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/news-update-breaking-Turkey-President-Erdogan-rakes-up-Kashmir-issue-in-Pakistan-Parliament">Turkey President Erdogan rakes up Kashmir issue in Pakistan Parliament</a>

"We will not leave Idlib to the (Syrian) regime, which does not understand our country's determination, and to those encouraging it," he said.

Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan said on Wednesday talks with Russia on the conflict in Syria's northwestern Idlib province were far from meeting Turkey's demands and he said a military operation there was a "matter of time".

Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan said on Wednesday talks with Russia on the conflict in Syria's northwestern Idlib province were far from meeting Turkey's demands and he said a military operation there was a "matter of time". Turkey and Russia back opposing sides in the nine-year-old Syrian conflict but have collaborated towards finding a political solution to end it. Also read: Erdogan threatens Damascus, slams Moscow over Idlib 'massacre' However, a Syrian government offensive in Idlib has upset the fragile cooperation after 13 Turkish troops were killed in Syrian attacks earlier this month. Ankara has urged Moscow, which backs Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, to stop the attacks in Idlib, saying the offensive was causing a migrant wave towards Turkey, which currently hosts 3.6 million Syrian refugees. Watch: Erdogan's plans to dominate the Muslim world × Erdogan has previously said Turkey may use military force to drive back Syrian forces unless they pull back by the end of the month. Also read: Erdogan battles on multiple fronts in risky regional power bid Speaking to lawmakers from his ruling AK Party, Erdogan said Turkey was determined to make Idlib a secure zone "no matter the cost", even as talks continue with Russia. Several rounds of talks with Moscow had failed to reach an agreement, he said. "We are entering the last days for the (Syrian) regime to stop its hostility in Idlib. We are making our final warnings," Erdogan said. "We did not reach the desired results in our talks (with Russia). The talks will continue, but it is true that we are far from meeting our demands at the table," he said. Also read: India takes strong exception to Turkish President Erdogan's comments on Kashmir "Turkey has made every preparation to carry out its own operational plans. I say that we can come at any point. In other words, the Idlib offensive is only a matter of time." Ankara and Moscow signed an agreement in 2018 to establish a de-escalation zone in Idlib, allowing both sides to also set up military observation posts in the region. Since the escalation of violence in the region, both sides have accused each other of flouting the agreement. Turkish and Russian officials held several rounds of talks in Ankara and Moscow. The foreign ministers Turkey and Russia also met at the weekend, but failed to find a solution. Erdogan has said Turkey has given the Syrian forces until the end of February to withdraw from Idlib. Also read: Turkey President Erdogan rakes up Kashmir issue in Pakistan Parliament "We will not leave Idlib to the (Syrian) regime, which does not understand our country's determination, and to those encouraging it," he said.

Turkey's Erdogan says Syria talks with Russia unsatisfactory, offensive 'matter of time'

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan accused Russia of managing the Libyan conflict "at the highest level", local media reported Saturday, as Ankara-Moscow tensions mount.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan accused Russia of managing the Libyan conflict "at the highest level", local media reported Saturday, as Ankara-Moscow tensions mount. "Russia is managing the war there right now at the highest level," Erdogan said, according to the Hurriyet daily. Turkey and Russia are currently engaged in a war of words over Syria where the two countries support opposing sides. Likewise in Libya, Ankara supports the UN-backed Government of National Accord (GNA) based in Tripoli while Russia backs military strongman Khalifa Haftar. Watch: 'Turkey will make Syria to pay heavy price' vows Erdogan The president has repeated the accusation that Russian security company Wagner is supporting Haftar despite Moscow's denials. "They are presently managing Wagner," Erdogan told Turkish journalists on board his plane after a visit to Pakistan this week. "Yet they still stand up and say, 'there's no link'," he added. The Wagner Group is a shadowy private security firm and thousands of its security contractors are believed to be in foreign conflicts from Syria to Ukraine to the Central African Republic. Also Read: Erdogan battles on multiple fronts in risky regional power bid Erdogan insisted Turkey would continue to support the GNA as part of a security deal signed late last year. He also hit out at the West over backing Haftar without directly naming any country. "The West still supports this man.... (He) is given arms, ammunition and money." Earlier on Saturday, Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu criticised the "very dangerous" meddling by some Gulf countries during the Munich Security Conference. "Those countries believe that democracy in one Arab country or the region is the biggest threat for their own regime," the top Turkish diplomat added.

Turkey President Erdogan says Russia managing Libya war 'at highest level'

India criticised Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and asked him to not to interfere in India’s internal affairs and to develop a proper understanding of facts including the threat of terrorism emanating from Pakistan.

India's reaction came a day after Erdogan,&nbsp;who is on a two-day visit to Pakistan, raked up the Kashmir issue.&nbsp;

He was addressing the joint session of parliament lauding <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/news-update-breaking-Turkey-President-Erdogan-rakes-up-Kashmir-issue-in-Pakistan-Parliament">"Turkey-Pakistan brotherhood"</a>.&nbsp;

Erdogan said that he will support Pakistan on the Kashmir issue during his Pakistan trip.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Erdogan provokes India again, backs Kashmir separatism

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The Turkey president said his country would continue to "raise its voice" in "Indian occupied Kashmir" stating,&nbsp;"How can we forget those from Pakistan who prayed for Turkey. Our friendship is not based on vested interests but on love".

"The Kashmir issue can be resolved not through conflict or oppression but on the basis of justice and fairness. Such a solution will serve the interests of all parties concerned. Turkey will continue to stand by justice, peace and dialogue in the resolution of the Kashmir issue," he said.&nbsp;

Registering a strong response against Ankara's action, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs said that Turkey must develop a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/turkey-to-oppose-pakistan-blacklisting-at-anti-terrorism-finance-meet-280745">proper understanding of facts</a> including threat of terrorism emanating from Pakistan.

Erdogan while addressing a joint session of Pakistan's parliament vowed to support Pakistan's stand on Kashmir.

Ankara even declared its backing for Pakistan's efforts to come out of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) greylist.

Not only that, Erdogan's statement came on the first anniversary of the Pulwama terror attack, in which 40 Indian CRPF personnel were killed.&nbsp;

India criticised Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and asked him to not to interfere in India’s internal affairs and to develop a proper understanding of facts including the threat of terrorism emanating from Pakistan.

India criticised Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and asked him to not to interfere in India’s internal affairs and to develop a proper understanding of facts including the threat of terrorism emanating from Pakistan. India's reaction came a day after Erdogan, who is on a two-day visit to Pakistan, raked up the Kashmir issue. He was addressing the joint session of parliament lauding "Turkey-Pakistan brotherhood". Erdogan said that he will support Pakistan on the Kashmir issue during his Pakistan trip. Watch | Erdogan provokes India again, backs Kashmir separatism × The Turkey president said his country would continue to "raise its voice" in "Indian occupied Kashmir" stating, "How can we forget those from Pakistan who prayed for Turkey. Our friendship is not based on vested interests but on love". "The Kashmir issue can be resolved not through conflict or oppression but on the basis of justice and fairness. Such a solution will serve the interests of all parties concerned. Turkey will continue to stand by justice, peace and dialogue in the resolution of the Kashmir issue," he said. Registering a strong response against Ankara's action, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs said that Turkey must develop a proper understanding of facts including threat of terrorism emanating from Pakistan. Erdogan while addressing a joint session of Pakistan's parliament vowed to support Pakistan's stand on Kashmir. Ankara even declared its backing for Pakistan's efforts to come out of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) greylist. Not only that, Erdogan's statement came on the first anniversary of the Pulwama terror attack, in which 40 Indian CRPF personnel were killed.

India takes strong exception to Turkish President Erdogan's comments on Kashmir 

India has asked Turkey not to interfere in India's internal matters. But President of Turkey Recep Tayyip Erdoğan recently vows to support Pakistan on the Kashmir issue. After which India strictly responds.

Turkish President vows to support Pakistan on Kashmir, India strictly responds

The optics seem evident: Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is at odds with just about everybody.

Erdogan is on opposite sides of Russia in Syria, with Turkish and Syrian troops poised for an all-out fight in the north of the war-torn country, as well as, in Libya. He didn’t do himself any favours by coming out swinging against his supposed Russian ally during a visit to Ukraine earlier this month.

On all three flashpoints, Turkey and Russia are testing the limits of what was always at best an opportunistic, fragile partnership aimed at capitalising on a seemingly diminishing US interest in the Middle East, evident already under President Barak Obama, and in Donald Trump’s haphazard redefinition of what he sees as America’s national interests.

If that were not already a plate full, Erdogan’s relations with his US and European allies are strained over unilateral Turkish moves in the eastern Mediterranean, Turkey’s acquisition of a Russian S-400 anti-missile system and/or Turkey’s military intervention in Syria as well as refugees and much more.

Turkey has threatened to close Incirlik Air Base and a critical radar station in Kurecik if the United States and the European Union fail to recognise what Turkey views as its national interests.

At the same time, Erdogan frets about his alliance with Qatar in the wake of suggestions that the Gulf state and Saudi Arabia are searching for a way to end a Saudi-led 2.5-year-old economic and diplomatic boycott of Qatar.

Reports that the talks between the Kingdom and Qatar have failed may not put Erdogan’s concerns to bed with the United Arab Emirates, Qatar’s most hardline detractor, restoring postal services with the Gulf state.

The restoration, mediated by the United Nation’s Universal Postal Union, was the first time that a third-party succeeded in negotiating any easing of the boycott.

Piling it on, Erdogan’s powerful navy, imitating Chinese tactics in the South China Sea, has significantly raised tensions in the eastern Mediterranean by sending naval forces to escort Turkish drillships into contested waters and to block Greek and Cypriot petrochemical exploration vessels in waters recognised as theirs under international law.

Turkey has warned Israel that it needs Turkish approval to build together with Greece and Turkey an undersea natural gas pipeline to Europe.

As he battles on multiple regional fronts, Erdogan is walking a finely calibrated tightrope, rather than hitting out blindly at everyone, in the assumption that neither Russia nor the United States or, for that matter, Qatar, can afford to lose Turkey. By the same token, neither can Turkey risk jeopardising its relationships.

As a result, Erdogan’s confrontational moves constitute a high stakes gamble, particularly with Turkey’s military build-up in northern Syria, an area in which Erdogan does not enjoy air superiority.

The Turkish leader is betting on Russia blinking first by reigning in Syrian forces and pressing for a negotiated resolution of the crisis.

Erdogan’s provocative visit to Kyiv and backing for Ukraine in its conflict with Russia was about far more than differences over the Russian-backed Syrian assault in Idlib, the last rebel outpost in the country.

Concerned that Russia’s annexation of Crimea in 2014 has put a halt to Turkey’s maritime dominance of the Black Sea and turned it into a Russian lake, Erdogan sought in Kyiv to play both sides against the middle.

The International Crisis Group has warned that in the Black Sea “Russia’s 2014 annexation of Crimea has enabled it to expand its naval capability, project power south and shift the strategic balance in its favour.”

Russia’s de facto coastline grew from 475 to 1,200 kilometres or about 25 per cent of the sea’s total shorefront since the annexation.

Add to that 300 kilometres of coastline belonging to Abkhazia, a Russian-backed breakaway region of Georgia.

In a bid to counter Russian advances, Erdogan’s gamble also constitutes a bid to persuade NATO to back Turkey in the Black Sea, reversing a decades-old policy of keeping the alliance out of the region.

With 13 Turkish soldiers being killed in the last week in two Syrian attacks on Turkish targets and Turkey claiming to have killed more than 100 Syrian soldiers in retaliation, Erdogan’s gambit appears to have produced initial dividends with the Trump administration backing the Turkish leader in his high-stakes Syrian bid.

One key joker is the degree to which Erdogan may feel that he has no choice but to escalate further than he would like to in response to far-right nationalists who resonate with a part of his voter base and are pressuring him to go for Syrian President Bashar al-Assad’s jugular.

"What are you waiting for? Don't beat around the bush while Turkish soldiers are being martyred in attacks carried out by soldiers of another state," said Meral Aksener, leader of the Iyi or Good Party.

Added Devlet Bahceli, head of Erdogan’s coalition partner, the Nationalist Movement Party (MHP): “Assad is a murderer, a criminal and the source of hostility. There will be no peace in Turkey until Assad is brought down from his throne. Turkey must start plans to enter Damascus now, and annihilate the cruel ones." 
 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)&nbsp;

The optics seem evident: Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is at odds with just about everybody. Erdogan is on opposite sides of Russia in Syria, with Turkish and Syrian troops poised for an all-out fight in the north of the war-torn country, as well as, in Libya.

The optics seem evident: Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is at odds with just about everybody. Erdogan is on opposite sides of Russia in Syria, with Turkish and Syrian troops poised for an all-out fight in the north of the war-torn country, as well as, in Libya. He didn’t do himself any favours by coming out swinging against his supposed Russian ally during a visit to Ukraine earlier this month. On all three flashpoints, Turkey and Russia are testing the limits of what was always at best an opportunistic, fragile partnership aimed at capitalising on a seemingly diminishing US interest in the Middle East, evident already under President Barak Obama, and in Donald Trump’s haphazard redefinition of what he sees as America’s national interests. If that were not already a plate full, Erdogan’s relations with his US and European allies are strained over unilateral Turkish moves in the eastern Mediterranean, Turkey’s acquisition of a Russian S-400 anti-missile system and/or Turkey’s military intervention in Syria as well as refugees and much more. Turkey has threatened to close Incirlik Air Base and a critical radar station in Kurecik if the United States and the European Union fail to recognise what Turkey views as its national interests. At the same time, Erdogan frets about his alliance with Qatar in the wake of suggestions that the Gulf state and Saudi Arabia are searching for a way to end a Saudi-led 2.5-year-old economic and diplomatic boycott of Qatar. Reports that the talks between the Kingdom and Qatar have failed may not put Erdogan’s concerns to bed with the United Arab Emirates, Qatar’s most hardline detractor, restoring postal services with the Gulf state. The restoration, mediated by the United Nation’s Universal Postal Union, was the first time that a third-party succeeded in negotiating any easing of the boycott. Piling it on, Erdogan’s powerful navy, imitating Chinese tactics in the South China Sea, has significantly raised tensions in the eastern Mediterranean by sending naval forces to escort Turkish drillships into contested waters and to block Greek and Cypriot petrochemical exploration vessels in waters recognised as theirs under international law. Turkey has warned Israel that it needs Turkish approval to build together with Greece and Turkey an undersea natural gas pipeline to Europe. As he battles on multiple regional fronts, Erdogan is walking a finely calibrated tightrope, rather than hitting out blindly at everyone, in the assumption that neither Russia nor the United States or, for that matter, Qatar, can afford to lose Turkey. By the same token, neither can Turkey risk jeopardising its relationships. As a result, Erdogan’s confrontational moves constitute a high stakes gamble, particularly with Turkey’s military build-up in northern Syria, an area in which Erdogan does not enjoy air superiority. The Turkish leader is betting on Russia blinking first by reigning in Syrian forces and pressing for a negotiated resolution of the crisis. Erdogan’s provocative visit to Kyiv and backing for Ukraine in its conflict with Russia was about far more than differences over the Russian-backed Syrian assault in Idlib, the last rebel outpost in the country. Concerned that Russia’s annexation of Crimea in 2014 has put a halt to Turkey’s maritime dominance of the Black Sea and turned it into a Russian lake, Erdogan sought in Kyiv to play both sides against the middle. The International Crisis Group has warned that in the Black Sea “Russia’s 2014 annexation of Crimea has enabled it to expand its naval capability, project power south and shift the strategic balance in its favour.” Russia’s de facto coastline grew from 475 to 1,200 kilometres or about 25 per cent of the sea’s total shorefront since the annexation. Add to that 300 kilometres of coastline belonging to Abkhazia, a Russian-backed breakaway region of Georgia. In a bid to counter Russian advances, Erdogan’s gamble also constitutes a bid to persuade NATO to back Turkey in the Black Sea, reversing a decades-old policy of keeping the alliance out of the region. With 13 Turkish soldiers being killed in the last week in two Syrian attacks on Turkish targets and Turkey claiming to have killed more than 100 Syrian soldiers in retaliation, Erdogan’s gambit appears to have produced initial dividends with the Trump administration backing the Turkish leader in his high-stakes Syrian bid. One key joker is the degree to which Erdogan may feel that he has no choice but to escalate further than he would like to in response to far-right nationalists who resonate with a part of his voter base and are pressuring him to go for Syrian President Bashar al-Assad’s jugular. "What are you waiting for? Don't beat around the bush while Turkish soldiers are being martyred in attacks carried out by soldiers of another state," said Meral Aksener, leader of the Iyi or Good Party. Added Devlet Bahceli, head of Erdogan’s coalition partner, the Nationalist Movement Party (MHP): “Assad is a murderer, a criminal and the source of hostility. There will be no peace in Turkey until Assad is brought down from his throne. Turkey must start plans to enter Damascus now, and annihilate the cruel ones." (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Erdogan battles on multiple fronts in risky regional power bid

United Nations Security Council (UNSC) has called for an emergency session on Syria, as tensions between Syrian and Turkish forces are escalating. In this segment, know what can be a possible outcome of UN emergency meet on Syria.

What can be possible outcome from UN emergency meet on Syria?

United Nations Security Council (UNSC) has called for an emergency session on Syria, as tensions between Syrian and Turkish forces are escalating.

UNSC calls emergency session on Syria

Turkey’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has vowed to make Syria “pay” for the death of eight Turkish military personnel in Idlib

'Turkey will make Syria to pay heavy price' vows Erdogan