Turkey will retaliate if the United States enacts a proposed law that would halt weapons sales to the country, Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said&nbsp;on Sunday.

Lawmakers in the US House of Representatives released details&nbsp;on Friday&nbsp;of a $717 billion annual defence policy bill, including a measure to temporarily halt weapons sales to Turkey.

In an interview, Cavusoglu said the measures in the bill were wrong, illogical and not fitting between the NATO allies.

"If the United States imposes sanctions on us or takes such a step, Turkey will absolutely retaliate," Cavusoglu said. "What needs to be done is the US&nbsp;needs to let go of this."

The proposed US&nbsp;National Defense Authorization Act, which is several steps from becoming law, would ask the Defense Department to provide Congress with a report on the relationship between the United States and Turkey and would block the sale of major defence equipment until the report was complete.

Turkey plans to buy more than 100 of Lockheed Martin's F-35 Joint Strike Fighter jets and is also in talks with Washington over the purchase of Patriot missiles.

Turkey signed an agreement with Russia in December to buy S-400 surface-to-air missile batteries as part of Ankara's plans to boost its defence capabilities amid threats from Kurdish and Islamist militants at home and conflicts across its borders in Syria and Iraq.

The move to buy S-400s, which are incompatible with the NATO systems, has unnerved NATO member countries, which are already wary of Moscow's military presence in the Middle East, prompting NATO officials to warn Turkey of unspecified consequences.

Cavusoglu dismissed the warnings, saying Turkey's relations and agreements with Russia were not an alternative to its ties with the West and accused the United States of trying to control Turkey's actions.

"Turkey is not a country under your orders, it is an independent country... Speaking to such a country from above, dictating what it can and cannot buy, is not a correct approach and does not fit our alliance," he said.

Relations between Ankara and Washington have been strained over a host of issues in recent months, including US&nbsp;policy in Syria and a number of legal cases against Turkish and US&nbsp;nationals being held in the two countries.

Last month, US&nbsp;Secretary of State Mike Pompeo told Cavusoglu that the United States was seriously concerned over Ankara's decision to buy the Russian S-400 missile batteries.

Cavusoglu said he would visit the United States next week to meet Pompeo, but added a specific date had not been set yet.

Turkey plans to buy more than 100 of Lockheed Martin's F-35 Joint Strike Fighter jets and is also in talks with Washington over the purchase of Patriot missiles

Turkey will retaliate if the United States enacts a proposed law that would halt weapons sales to the country, Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said on Sunday. Lawmakers in the US House of Representatives released details on Friday of a $717 billion annual defence policy bill, including a measure to temporarily halt weapons sales to Turkey. In an interview, Cavusoglu said the measures in the bill were wrong, illogical and not fitting between the NATO allies. "If the United States imposes sanctions on us or takes such a step, Turkey will absolutely retaliate," Cavusoglu said. "What needs to be done is the US needs to let go of this." The proposed US National Defense Authorization Act, which is several steps from becoming law, would ask the Defense Department to provide Congress with a report on the relationship between the United States and Turkey and would block the sale of major defence equipment until the report was complete. Turkey plans to buy more than 100 of Lockheed Martin's F-35 Joint Strike Fighter jets and is also in talks with Washington over the purchase of Patriot missiles. Turkey signed an agreement with Russia in December to buy S-400 surface-to-air missile batteries as part of Ankara's plans to boost its defence capabilities amid threats from Kurdish and Islamist militants at home and conflicts across its borders in Syria and Iraq. The move to buy S-400s, which are incompatible with the NATO systems, has unnerved NATO member countries, which are already wary of Moscow's military presence in the Middle East, prompting NATO officials to warn Turkey of unspecified consequences. Cavusoglu dismissed the warnings, saying Turkey's relations and agreements with Russia were not an alternative to its ties with the West and accused the United States of trying to control Turkey's actions. "Turkey is not a country under your orders, it is an independent country... Speaking to such a country from above, dictating what it can and cannot buy, is not a correct approach and does not fit our alliance," he said. Relations between Ankara and Washington have been strained over a host of issues in recent months, including US policy in Syria and a number of legal cases against Turkish and US nationals being held in the two countries. Last month, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo told Cavusoglu that the United States was seriously concerned over Ankara's decision to buy the Russian S-400 missile batteries. Cavusoglu said he would visit the United States next week to meet Pompeo, but added a specific date had not been set yet.

Turkey says it will retaliate if the United States halts weapons sales

Sweden recently woke up to a bitter reality when the country's official Twitter account posted stating that one of its best-loved delicacies, meatballs, was actually Turkish.&nbsp;

The Twitter handle, last week, shared that the traditional Swedish meatballs recipe was based "on a recipe King Charles XII brought home from Turkey in the early 18th century."

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Swedish meatballs are actually based on a recipe King Charles XII brought home from Turkey in the early 18th century. Let's stick to the facts! <a href="https://t.co/JuTDEjq9MM">pic.twitter.com/JuTDEjq9MM</a>
— Sweden.se (@swedense) <a href="https://twitter.com/swedense/status/990223361648275456?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 28, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Shortly after the fact was shared by the Swedish government, Turkey’s international television news channel, TRT World, posted a video from its Twitter handle.

According to the video, after Russia invaded Sweden in the 18th century, "the Turks welcomed Swedish King Charles XII who was forced to flee his country. The King's exile in the Ottoman Empire led to Sweden's introduction to new tastes. King Charles took the meatball recipe, coffee beans and stuffed cabbage when he returned to Sweden and changed Swedish cuisine forever".

It has now come to light that the Swedish staples, Kåldolmar (spicy lamb and beef meatballs), Köttbullar (stuffed cabbage delicacy) and even the traditional concept of having coffee along with pastries and other tidbits called Fika, may have also been borrowed from Turkey.&nbsp;

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Also roasted coffee and cabbage rolls (kåldolmar) was brought to Sweden from Turkey by King Charles XII ?
— NerudaGungoren (@NerudaGungoren) <a href="https://twitter.com/NerudaGungoren/status/990845507055636480?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 30, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The finding triggered a tsunami of reactions on social media with some stating that the revelation has changed their lives forever.&nbsp;

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I'm a Turkish man and I love Swedish meatballs ❤️. Thanks for your honesty. ⚖️??
— Damdanakan (@rmstnvct) <a href="https://twitter.com/rmstnvct/status/990333993458466817?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 28, 2018</a></blockquote>
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I would die?
— Karen Casabianca (@kcasabianca) <a href="https://twitter.com/kcasabianca/status/991019044894584833?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 30, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Not to mention the heartbreak suffered by those who could vouch for the delicious meatballs served at IKEA.&nbsp;

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My whole life was a lie...
— William J (@William_1088) <a href="https://twitter.com/William_1088/status/990899892133552129?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 30, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The Swedish-founded Dutch giant -- that is world-renowned for its home and kitchen furnishing -- introduced Swedish meatballs at food courts located at its stores almost over three decades back.

The most popular&nbsp;item on IKEA'S menu is also the hottest selling delicacy today for which a person needs to shell out at least $5.99 per plate.

It is estimated that a whopping two million meatballs are eaten in IKEA's 340 stores worldwide every day.

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<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/K7Z6ZmWtaJM" width="560"></iframe></div>
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&nbsp;

The Swedish staples, Kåldolmar (spicy lamb and beef meatballs), Köttbullar (stuffed cabbage delicacy) may have also been borrowed from Turkey

Sweden recently woke up to a bitter reality when the country's official Twitter account posted stating that one of its best-loved delicacies, meatballs, was actually Turkish. The Twitter handle, last week, shared that the traditional Swedish meatballs recipe was based "on a recipe King Charles XII brought home from Turkey in the early 18th century." Swedish meatballs are actually based on a recipe King Charles XII brought home from Turkey in the early 18th century. Let's stick to the facts! pic.twitter.com/JuTDEjq9MM — Sweden.se (@swedense) April 28, 2018 × Shortly after the fact was shared by the Swedish government, Turkey’s international television news channel, TRT World, posted a video from its Twitter handle. According to the video, after Russia invaded Sweden in the 18th century, "the Turks welcomed Swedish King Charles XII who was forced to flee his country. The King's exile in the Ottoman Empire led to Sweden's introduction to new tastes. King Charles took the meatball recipe, coffee beans and stuffed cabbage when he returned to Sweden and changed Swedish cuisine forever". It has now come to light that the Swedish staples, Kåldolmar (spicy lamb and beef meatballs), Köttbullar (stuffed cabbage delicacy) and even the traditional concept of having coffee along with pastries and other tidbits called Fika, may have also been borrowed from Turkey. Also roasted coffee and cabbage rolls (kåldolmar) was brought to Sweden from Turkey by King Charles XII ? — NerudaGungoren (@NerudaGungoren) April 30, 2018 × The finding triggered a tsunami of reactions on social media with some stating that the revelation has changed their lives forever. I'm a Turkish man and I love Swedish meatballs ❤️. Thanks for your honesty. ⚖️?? — Damdanakan (@rmstnvct) April 28, 2018 × I would die? — Karen Casabianca (@kcasabianca) April 30, 2018 × Not to mention the heartbreak suffered by those who could vouch for the delicious meatballs served at IKEA. My whole life was a lie... — William J (@William_1088) April 30, 2018 × The Swedish-founded Dutch giant -- that is world-renowned for its home and kitchen furnishing -- introduced Swedish meatballs at food courts located at its stores almost over three decades back. The most popular item on IKEA'S menu is also the hottest selling delicacy today for which a person needs to shell out at least $5.99 per plate. It is estimated that a whopping two million meatballs are eaten in IKEA's 340 stores worldwide every day. ×

Sweden admits meatballs are Turkish, Swedes grapple with heartbreak

By:&nbspConn Hallinan*

The unusual triple alliance coming out of Syria could change the regional balance of power and unhinge NATO — if it holds together at all.

An unusual triple alliance is emerging from the Syrian War — one that could alter the balance of power in the Middle East, unhinge the NATO alliance, and complicate the Trump administration’s designs on Iran. It might also lead to yet another double cross of one of the region’s largest ethnic groups, the Kurds.

However, the "troika alliance" — Turkey, Russia and Iran — consists of three countries that don’t much like one another, have different goals, and whose policies are driven by a combination of geo-global goals and internal politics. In short, "fragile and complicated" doesn’t even begin to describe it.

How the triad might be affected by the joint American, French and British attack on Syria is unclear, but in the long run the alliance will likely survive the uptick of hostilities.

Consolidating Erdogan's grip

Common ground was what came out of the April 4 meeting between Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani and Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Meeting in Ankara, the parties pledged to support the "territorial integrity" of Syria, find a diplomatic end to the war, and to begin a reconstruction of a Syria devastated by seven years of war. While Russia and Turkey explicitly backed the UN-sponsored talks in Geneva, Iran was quiet on that issue, preferring a regional solution without "foreign plans."

"Common ground," however, doesn’t mean the members of the "troika" are on the same page.

Turkey’s interests are both internal and external. The Turkish army is currently conducting two military operations in northern Syria, Olive Branch and Euphrates Shield, aimed at driving the mainly Kurdish People’s Protection Units (YPG) out of land that borders Turkey. But those operations are also deeply entwined with domestic Turkish politics.

Erdogan's internal support has been eroded by a number of factors: exhaustion with the ongoing state of emergency imposed following the 2016 attempted coup, a shaky economy, and a precipitous fall in the value of the Turkish lira.

Rather than waiting for 2019, Erdogan has called a snap election for June 24, and beating up on the Kurds is always popular with right-wing Turkish nationalists. Erdogan needs all the votes he can get to implement the newly minted executive presidency that will give him virtually one-man rule.

Driving a wedge in NATO

To be part of the alliance, however, Erdogan has had to modify his goal of getting rid of Syrian President Bashar Assad and to agree — at this point, anyhow — to eventually withdraw from areas in northern Syria seized by the Turkish army. Russia and Iran have called for turning over the regions conquered by the Turks to the Syrian army.

Moscow's goals are to keep a foothold in the Middle East with its only base, Tartus, and to aid its long-time ally, Syria. The Russians aren’t deeply committed to Assad personally, but they want a friendly government in Damascus. They also want to destroy al-Qaeda and the Islamic State, which have caused Moscow considerable trouble in the Caucasus.

Russia also wouldn't mind driving a wedge between Ankara and NATO. After the US, Turkey has NATO’s second-largest army. NATO broke a 1989 agreement not to recruit former members of the Russian-dominated Warsaw Pact into NATO as a quid pro quo for the Soviets withdrawing from Eastern Europe.

Since the Yugoslav War in 1999, the alliance has marched right up to the borders of Russia. (The 2008 war with Georgia and 2014 seizure of the Crimea were largely a reaction to what Moscow sees as an encirclement strategy by its adversaries.)

Turkey has been at odds with its NATO allies around a dispute between Greece and Cyprus over sea-based oil and gas resources, and it recently charged two Greek soldiers who violated the Turkish border with espionage.

Erdogan is also angry that European Union countries refuse to extradite Turkish soldiers and civilians whom he claims helped engineer the 2016 coup against him. While most NATO countries condemned Moscow for the recent attack on two Russians in Britain, the Turks pointedly did not.

Turkish relations with Russia have an economic side as well. Ankara wants a natural gas pipeline from Russia, has broken ground on a $20 billion Russian nuclear reactor, and just shelled out $2.5 billion for Russia’s S-400 anti-aircraft system.

The Kurdish question

The Russians don't support Erdogan’s war on the Kurds and have lobbied for the inclusion of Kurdish delegations in negotiations over the future of Syria. But Moscow clearly gave the Turks a green light to attack the Kurdish city of Afrin in March, driving out the YPG that had liberated it from the Islamic State and Turkish-backed al-Qaeda groups. A number of Kurds charge that Moscow has betrayed them.

Will the Russians stand aside if the Turkish forces move further into Syria and attack the city of Manbij, where the Kurds are allied with American and French forces? And will Erdogan's hostility to the Kurds lead to an armed clash among three NATO members?

Such a clash seems unlikely, although the Turks have been giving flamethrower speeches over the past several weeks. "Those who cooperate with terrorist organisations [the YPG] will be targeted by Turkey," Deputy Prime Minister Bekir Bozdag said in a pointed reference to France's support for the Kurds. Threatening the French is one thing, picking a fight with the US military quite another.

Of course, if President Donald Trump pulls US forces out of Syria, it will be tempting for Turkey to move in. While the “troika alliance” has agreed to Syrian "sovereignty," that won’t stop Ankara from meddling in Kurdish affairs. The Turks are already appointing governors and mayors for the areas in Syria they have occupied.

Keeping the US at bay

Iran's major concern in Syria is maintaining a buffer between itself and the very aggressive American, Israeli and Saudi alliance, which seems to be in the preliminary stages of planning a war against the second-largest country in the Middle East.

Iran is not at all the threat it’s been pumped up to be. Its military is minuscule and talk of a so-called "Shia crescent" — Iran, Iraq, Syria and Lebanon — is pretty much a Western invention (although the term was dreamed up by the Sunni king of Jordan).

Tehran has been weakened by crippling sanctions and faces the possibility that Washington will withdraw from the nuclear accord and re-impose yet more sanctions. The appointment of US National Security Adviser John Bolton, who openly calls for regime change in Iran, has to have sent a chill down the spines of the Iranians.

What Tehran needs most of all is allies who will shield it from the enmity of the US, Israel and Saudi Arabia. In this regard, Turkey and Russia could be helpful.

Iran has modified its original goals in Syria of a Shia-dominated regime by agreeing to a "non-sectarian character" for a post-war Syria. (Erdogan has also given up on his desire for a Sunni-dominated government in Damascus.)

War and oil

The war between the US or its allies and Iran would be catastrophic — an unwinnable conflict that could destabilise the Middle East even more than it is now. It would, however, drive up the price of oil, currently running at around $66 a barrel.

Saudi Arabia needs to sell its oil for at least $100 a barrel or it will very quickly run of money. The ongoing quagmire of the Yemen War, the need to diversify the economy, and the growing clamor by young Saudis — 70 per cent of the population — for jobs require lots of money, and the current trends in oil pricing are not going to cover the bills.

War and oil make for odd bedfellows. While the Saudis are doing their best to overthrow the Assad regime and fuel the extremists fighting the Russians, Riyadh is wooing Moscow to sign on to a long-term OPEC agreement to control oil supplies.

That probably won’t happen — the Russians are fine with oil at $50 to $60 a barrel — and are wary of agreements that would restrict their right to develop new oil and gas resources.

The Saudis' jihad on the Iranians has a desperate edge to it. The greatest threat to the kingdom has always come from within.

The rocks and shoals that can wreck alliances in the Middle East are too numerous to count, and the "troika" is riven with contradictions and conflicting interests. But the war in Syria looks as if it’s coming to some kind of resolution — and at this point Iran, Russia and Turkey seem to be the only actors who have a script that goes beyond lobbing cruise missiles at people.

*Conn M. Hallinan is a columnist for Foreign Policy in Focus, "A Think Tank Without Walls," and an independent journalist.&nbsp

(This article was originally published on <a href="https://www.fairobserver.com/ ">Fair Observer</a>. Read the original <a href="https://www.fairobserver.com/region/middle_east_north_africa/syrian-war-turkey-iran-russia-world-news-headlines-43093/">article</a>.)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

The unusual triple alliance coming out of Syria could change the regional balance of power and unhinge NATO — if it holds together at all

By: Conn Hallinan* The unusual triple alliance coming out of Syria could change the regional balance of power and unhinge NATO — if it holds together at all. An unusual triple alliance is emerging from the Syrian War — one that could alter the balance of power in the Middle East, unhinge the NATO alliance, and complicate the Trump administration’s designs on Iran. It might also lead to yet another double cross of one of the region’s largest ethnic groups, the Kurds. However, the "troika alliance" — Turkey, Russia and Iran — consists of three countries that don’t much like one another, have different goals, and whose policies are driven by a combination of geo-global goals and internal politics. In short, "fragile and complicated" doesn’t even begin to describe it. How the triad might be affected by the joint American, French and British attack on Syria is unclear, but in the long run the alliance will likely survive the uptick of hostilities. Consolidating Erdogan's grip Common ground was what came out of the April 4 meeting between Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani and Russian President Vladimir Putin. Meeting in Ankara, the parties pledged to support the "territorial integrity" of Syria, find a diplomatic end to the war, and to begin a reconstruction of a Syria devastated by seven years of war. While Russia and Turkey explicitly backed the UN-sponsored talks in Geneva, Iran was quiet on that issue, preferring a regional solution without "foreign plans." "Common ground," however, doesn’t mean the members of the "troika" are on the same page. Turkey’s interests are both internal and external. The Turkish army is currently conducting two military operations in northern Syria, Olive Branch and Euphrates Shield, aimed at driving the mainly Kurdish People’s Protection Units (YPG) out of land that borders Turkey. But those operations are also deeply entwined with domestic Turkish politics. Erdogan's internal support has been eroded by a number of factors: exhaustion with the ongoing state of emergency imposed following the 2016 attempted coup, a shaky economy, and a precipitous fall in the value of the Turkish lira. Rather than waiting for 2019, Erdogan has called a snap election for June 24, and beating up on the Kurds is always popular with right-wing Turkish nationalists. Erdogan needs all the votes he can get to implement the newly minted executive presidency that will give him virtually one-man rule. Driving a wedge in NATO To be part of the alliance, however, Erdogan has had to modify his goal of getting rid of Syrian President Bashar Assad and to agree — at this point, anyhow — to eventually withdraw from areas in northern Syria seized by the Turkish army. Russia and Iran have called for turning over the regions conquered by the Turks to the Syrian army. Moscow's goals are to keep a foothold in the Middle East with its only base, Tartus, and to aid its long-time ally, Syria. The Russians aren’t deeply committed to Assad personally, but they want a friendly government in Damascus. They also want to destroy al-Qaeda and the Islamic State, which have caused Moscow considerable trouble in the Caucasus. Russia also wouldn't mind driving a wedge between Ankara and NATO. After the US, Turkey has NATO’s second-largest army. NATO broke a 1989 agreement not to recruit former members of the Russian-dominated Warsaw Pact into NATO as a quid pro quo for the Soviets withdrawing from Eastern Europe. Since the Yugoslav War in 1999, the alliance has marched right up to the borders of Russia. (The 2008 war with Georgia and 2014 seizure of the Crimea were largely a reaction to what Moscow sees as an encirclement strategy by its adversaries.) Turkey has been at odds with its NATO allies around a dispute between Greece and Cyprus over sea-based oil and gas resources, and it recently charged two Greek soldiers who violated the Turkish border with espionage. Erdogan is also angry that European Union countries refuse to extradite Turkish soldiers and civilians whom he claims helped engineer the 2016 coup against him. While most NATO countries condemned Moscow for the recent attack on two Russians in Britain, the Turks pointedly did not. Turkish relations with Russia have an economic side as well. Ankara wants a natural gas pipeline from Russia, has broken ground on a $20 billion Russian nuclear reactor, and just shelled out $2.5 billion for Russia’s S-400 anti-aircraft system. The Kurdish question The Russians don't support Erdogan’s war on the Kurds and have lobbied for the inclusion of Kurdish delegations in negotiations over the future of Syria. But Moscow clearly gave the Turks a green light to attack the Kurdish city of Afrin in March, driving out the YPG that had liberated it from the Islamic State and Turkish-backed al-Qaeda groups. A number of Kurds charge that Moscow has betrayed them. Will the Russians stand aside if the Turkish forces move further into Syria and attack the city of Manbij, where the Kurds are allied with American and French forces? And will Erdogan's hostility to the Kurds lead to an armed clash among three NATO members? Such a clash seems unlikely, although the Turks have been giving flamethrower speeches over the past several weeks. "Those who cooperate with terrorist organisations [the YPG] will be targeted by Turkey," Deputy Prime Minister Bekir Bozdag said in a pointed reference to France's support for the Kurds. Threatening the French is one thing, picking a fight with the US military quite another. Of course, if President Donald Trump pulls US forces out of Syria, it will be tempting for Turkey to move in. While the “troika alliance” has agreed to Syrian "sovereignty," that won’t stop Ankara from meddling in Kurdish affairs. The Turks are already appointing governors and mayors for the areas in Syria they have occupied. Keeping the US at bay Iran's major concern in Syria is maintaining a buffer between itself and the very aggressive American, Israeli and Saudi alliance, which seems to be in the preliminary stages of planning a war against the second-largest country in the Middle East. Iran is not at all the threat it’s been pumped up to be. Its military is minuscule and talk of a so-called "Shia crescent" — Iran, Iraq, Syria and Lebanon — is pretty much a Western invention (although the term was dreamed up by the Sunni king of Jordan). Tehran has been weakened by crippling sanctions and faces the possibility that Washington will withdraw from the nuclear accord and re-impose yet more sanctions. The appointment of US National Security Adviser John Bolton, who openly calls for regime change in Iran, has to have sent a chill down the spines of the Iranians. What Tehran needs most of all is allies who will shield it from the enmity of the US, Israel and Saudi Arabia. In this regard, Turkey and Russia could be helpful. Iran has modified its original goals in Syria of a Shia-dominated regime by agreeing to a "non-sectarian character" for a post-war Syria. (Erdogan has also given up on his desire for a Sunni-dominated government in Damascus.) War and oil The war between the US or its allies and Iran would be catastrophic — an unwinnable conflict that could destabilise the Middle East even more than it is now. It would, however, drive up the price of oil, currently running at around $66 a barrel. Saudi Arabia needs to sell its oil for at least $100 a barrel or it will very quickly run of money. The ongoing quagmire of the Yemen War, the need to diversify the economy, and the growing clamor by young Saudis — 70 per cent of the population — for jobs require lots of money, and the current trends in oil pricing are not going to cover the bills. War and oil make for odd bedfellows. While the Saudis are doing their best to overthrow the Assad regime and fuel the extremists fighting the Russians, Riyadh is wooing Moscow to sign on to a long-term OPEC agreement to control oil supplies. That probably won’t happen — the Russians are fine with oil at $50 to $60 a barrel — and are wary of agreements that would restrict their right to develop new oil and gas resources. The Saudis' jihad on the Iranians has a desperate edge to it. The greatest threat to the kingdom has always come from within. The rocks and shoals that can wreck alliances in the Middle East are too numerous to count, and the "troika" is riven with contradictions and conflicting interests. But the war in Syria looks as if it’s coming to some kind of resolution — and at this point Iran, Russia and Turkey seem to be the only actors who have a script that goes beyond lobbing cruise missiles at people. *Conn M. Hallinan is a columnist for Foreign Policy in Focus, "A Think Tank Without Walls," and an independent journalist. (This article was originally published on Fair Observer. Read the original article.) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Opinion: An emerging Russia-Turkey-Iran alliance could reshape the Middle East

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/meeting-with-north-korea-could-happen-in-3-to-4-weeks-says-donald-trump-133505">Meeting with North Korea could happen in '3 or 4 weeks', says Donald Trump</a>

US President Donald Trump said on Saturday a meeting with North Korea could happen over the next three to four weeks.

"I think we will have a meeting over the next three or four weeks," Trump said at a campaign rally in Washington, Michigan. "It's going be a very important meeting, the denuclearisation of the Korean Peninsula."&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-says-to-dismantle-its-nuclear-test-site-in-may-south-korea-133515">North Korea to dismantle its nuclear test site in May: South Korea</a>

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un said during Friday's summit with South Korean President Moon Jae-in that he would close the country's nuclear test site next month, Moon's office said.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/russia-turkey-and-iran-need-to-help-clear-syria-of-terrorists---lavrov-133502">Russia, Turkey and Iran need to help clear Syria of terrorists: Russian Foreign Minister</a>

Russia, Turkey and Iran need to help Syria's government clear its country of terrorists, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said on Saturday during a trilateral meeting in Moscow with his counterparts from Turkey and Iran.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/her-order-violates-fundamental-rights-of-people-puducherry-cm-on-kiran-bedis-rice-subsidy-order-to-only-lean-villages-133512">Violates fundamental rights, says Puducherry CM after LG Kiran Bedi orders free rice only for 'clean villages'</a>

Puducherry Lieutenant Governor Kiran Bedi's order, stating that the free rice distribution scheme would be applicable to villages free from open defecation and garbage, sparked a controversy. Bedi had to face a wave of criticism over her remark. Chief Minister Velu Narayanasamy on Saturday also reacted saying that she had no idea about the implications of her order.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/i-will-return-to-my-devotees-after-getting-aides-out-asarams-audio-clip-from-jodhpur-prison-goes-viral-133514">I will return to my devotees after getting aides out: Asaram's audio clip from Jodhpur prison goes viral</a>

Self-styled godman Asaram Bapu, who currently serves a life term in Jodhpur jail, was heard talking about his plan his to come out of jail in an online audio clip that went viral yesterday.

Meeting with North Korea could happen in '3 or 4 weeks', says Donald Trump US President Donald Trump said on Saturday a meeting with North Korea could happen over the next three to four weeks. "I think we will have a meeting over the next three or four weeks," Trump said at a campaign rally in Washington, Michigan. "It's going be a very important meeting, the denuclearisation of the Korean Peninsula." North Korea to dismantle its nuclear test site in May: South Korea North Korean leader Kim Jong Un said during Friday's summit with South Korean President Moon Jae-in that he would close the country's nuclear test site next month, Moon's office said. Russia, Turkey and Iran need to help clear Syria of terrorists: Russian Foreign Minister Russia, Turkey and Iran need to help Syria's government clear its country of terrorists, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said on Saturday during a trilateral meeting in Moscow with his counterparts from Turkey and Iran. Violates fundamental rights, says Puducherry CM after LG Kiran Bedi orders free rice only for 'clean villages' Puducherry Lieutenant Governor Kiran Bedi's order, stating that the free rice distribution scheme would be applicable to villages free from open defecation and garbage, sparked a controversy. Bedi had to face a wave of criticism over her remark. Chief Minister Velu Narayanasamy on Saturday also reacted saying that she had no idea about the implications of her order. I will return to my devotees after getting aides out: Asaram's audio clip from Jodhpur prison goes viral Self-styled godman Asaram Bapu, who currently serves a life term in Jodhpur jail, was heard talking about his plan his to come out of jail in an online audio clip that went viral yesterday.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Russia, Turkey and Iran need to help Syria's government clear its country of terrorists, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said on Saturday during a trilateral meeting in Moscow with his counterparts from Turkey and Iran.

"I am sure that it is necessary today to help the Syrians to finish clearing the country of terrorists and we all are helping the Syrian government to make this happen faster," said Lavrov.

"I am sure that it is necessary today to help the Syrians to finish clearing the country of terrorists and we all are helping the Syrian government to make this happen faster," noted Iran's Foreign Minister, Mohammad Javad Zarif.

"I agree with Javad Zarif that best solution is the political solution and any military solution is illegal and unsustainable,"&nbsp;said Turkey's Foreign Minister Melvut Cavusoglu.

Turkish Foreign minister Mevlut Cavusoglu added that any military solution in Syria would be illegal and unsustainable. Cavusoglu said the three countries could work together to help the Syrian people and there needed to be a new push to reach a political solution.

Declarations of some Syrian opposition figures are damaging efforts to inject new life into Geneva peace process, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei&nbsp;Lavrov said, adding that there can be no preconditions for Geneva talks.

Russia, Iran and Turkey agreed that Syria peace process must continue despite Western missile strikes,&nbsp;Lavrov&nbsp;said after meeting his Iranian and Turkish counterparts in Moscow.

"This attack (on Syria by U.S., Great Britain and France) of course has thrown back the efforts to advance in the political process. Nevertheless, today we have firmly confirmed that these efforts must be continued, we agreed on concrete steps which all three of our countries will take both collectively and individually to return all of us to the path of stable progress towards the goals of Resolution 2254," Lavrov noted.

Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said that Russia, Iran and Turkey need to work in coordination with the United Nations to ensure the legitimacy of any political solution in Syria.

"We need to convene and launch the constitutional committee in the near future. We discussed how we should work with the United Nations in this respect to legitimize the political process. We talked with the UN special envoy on Syria and we need to work closer with him and to involve the United Nations more actively," Cavusoglu added.

Iran's foreign minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said on Saturday that demands by US President Donald Trump to change Tehran's nuclear deal with world powers were unacceptable.

Trump has said that unless European allies fix the "terrible flaws" in the Iran nuclear deal by May 12, he will refuse to extend US&nbsp;sanctions relief for oil-producing Iran.

Turkish Foreign minister Mevlut Cavusoglu added that any military solution in Syria would be illegal and unsustainable

Russia, Turkey and Iran need to help Syria's government clear its country of terrorists, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said on Saturday during a trilateral meeting in Moscow with his counterparts from Turkey and Iran. "I am sure that it is necessary today to help the Syrians to finish clearing the country of terrorists and we all are helping the Syrian government to make this happen faster," said Lavrov. "I am sure that it is necessary today to help the Syrians to finish clearing the country of terrorists and we all are helping the Syrian government to make this happen faster," noted Iran's Foreign Minister, Mohammad Javad Zarif. "I agree with Javad Zarif that best solution is the political solution and any military solution is illegal and unsustainable," said Turkey's Foreign Minister Melvut Cavusoglu. Turkish Foreign minister Mevlut Cavusoglu added that any military solution in Syria would be illegal and unsustainable. Cavusoglu said the three countries could work together to help the Syrian people and there needed to be a new push to reach a political solution. Declarations of some Syrian opposition figures are damaging efforts to inject new life into Geneva peace process, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said, adding that there can be no preconditions for Geneva talks. Russia, Iran and Turkey agreed that Syria peace process must continue despite Western missile strikes, Lavrov said after meeting his Iranian and Turkish counterparts in Moscow. "This attack (on Syria by U.S., Great Britain and France) of course has thrown back the efforts to advance in the political process. Nevertheless, today we have firmly confirmed that these efforts must be continued, we agreed on concrete steps which all three of our countries will take both collectively and individually to return all of us to the path of stable progress towards the goals of Resolution 2254," Lavrov noted. Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said that Russia, Iran and Turkey need to work in coordination with the United Nations to ensure the legitimacy of any political solution in Syria. "We need to convene and launch the constitutional committee in the near future. We discussed how we should work with the United Nations in this respect to legitimize the political process. We talked with the UN special envoy on Syria and we need to work closer with him and to involve the United Nations more actively," Cavusoglu added. Iran's foreign minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said on Saturday that demands by US President Donald Trump to change Tehran's nuclear deal with world powers were unacceptable. Trump has said that unless European allies fix the "terrible flaws" in the Iran nuclear deal by May 12, he will refuse to extend US sanctions relief for oil-producing Iran.

Russia, Turkey and Iran need to help clear Syria of terrorists: Russian Foreign Minister

An earthquake of magnitude 5.2 stuck Southwest Turkey on Tuesday, injuring at least 39 and damaging several buildings.&nbsp

As per reports, Prime Minister Binali Yildirim was quoted saying no deaths had been reported so far in the district.

The United States Geological Survey (USGS) said the earthquake, which struck at 0034 GMT, and occurred at a depth of 10 kilometres (6.21 miles).

Turkey's health minister said of those injured, 35 were still receiving treatment, according to official Anadolu news agency. The regional governor said the injuries were caused as people fled their homes in panic.&nbsp

The earthquake was felt in nearby cities -- Sanliurfa, Gaziantep, and Diyarbakir -- while some buildings in surrounding villages and districts were damaged.

The quake was followed by eight small aftershocks.Elementary and high schools closed for the day, other local media said

As per reports, Prime Minister Binali Yildirim was quoted saying no deaths had been reported so far in the district

An earthquake of magnitude 5.2 stuck Southwest Turkey on Tuesday, injuring at least 39 and damaging several buildings. As per reports, Prime Minister Binali Yildirim was quoted saying no deaths had been reported so far in the district. The United States Geological Survey (USGS) said the earthquake, which struck at 0034 GMT, and occurred at a depth of 10 kilometres (6.21 miles). Turkey's health minister said of those injured, 35 were still receiving treatment, according to official Anadolu news agency. The regional governor said the injuries were caused as people fled their homes in panic. The earthquake was felt in nearby cities -- Sanliurfa, Gaziantep, and Diyarbakir -- while some buildings in surrounding villages and districts were damaged. The quake was followed by eight small aftershocks.Elementary and high schools closed for the day, other local media said

Earthquake in Southwest Turkey injures several, damages buildings

President Tayyip Erdogan said the United States should look at its own actions if it wants the return of an American Christian pastor who has been jailed in Turkey for suspected links to a 2016 failed coup.

Erdogan made the comment in a live interview with broadcaster NTV.

Andrew Brunson, who has lived in Turkey for more than two decades, was indicted on charges of helping the group that Ankara holds responsible for the failed coup against Erdogan. He faces up to 35 years in prison. Brunson denies the charges.

Erdogan has previously linked Brunson's fate to that of the cleric Fethullah Gulen, the Muslim cleric Turkey blames for the coup attempt. Gulen has lived in the United States since 1999 and denies the charges. Turkey is seeking his extradition from the United States.

US&nbspPresident Donald Trump and dozens of US&nbspsenators have urged Erdogan to release Brunson.

President Tayyip Erdogan said the United States should look at its own actions if it wants the return of an American Christian pastor who has been jailed in Turkey for suspected links to a 2016 failed coup

President Tayyip Erdogan said the United States should look at its own actions if it wants the return of an American Christian pastor who has been jailed in Turkey for suspected links to a 2016 failed coup. Erdogan made the comment in a live interview with broadcaster NTV. Andrew Brunson, who has lived in Turkey for more than two decades, was indicted on charges of helping the group that Ankara holds responsible for the failed coup against Erdogan. He faces up to 35 years in prison. Brunson denies the charges. Erdogan has previously linked Brunson's fate to that of the cleric Fethullah Gulen, the Muslim cleric Turkey blames for the coup attempt. Gulen has lived in the United States since 1999 and denies the charges. Turkey is seeking his extradition from the United States. US&nbspPresident Donald Trump and dozens of US&nbspsenators have urged Erdogan to release Brunson.

Turkey's Erdogan says US should look at its own actions if it wants jailed pastor freed

Businesses should welcome Turkey's state of emergency because it guards against terrorism and prevents workers from going out on strike, President Tayyip Erdogan said on Saturday.

Parliament this week voted to extend the state of emergency, introduced following a failed coup in July 2016, for a further three months. It is the seventh such extension of emergency rule, which lets Erdogan and the government bypass parliament in passing new laws and allows them to suspend rights and freedoms.&nbsp

The extensions have been roundly criticised by human rights groups and Turkey's Western allies. The country's main business lobby, TUSIAD, this week renewed its call for a swift end to emergency rule.

"The state of emergency only affects terrorists. Now it's preventing labour strikes, such as the Bursa strike, which we stopped right away. It's a struggle against terrorism," Erdogan said in a speech to the DEIK business lobby, which represents Turkey's private sector overseas.

"When our business people say the state of emergency should be lifted, it upsets us... We will continue extending it for the peace of our country, yes we will, for the 10th time if necessary."

Earlier this year authorities stopped workers in the northwestern city of Bursa, home to the auto industry and a hub for textile manufacturing, from going out on strike.&nbsp

Under emergency rule, strikes, protests and displays of civil disobedience can be shut down on security grounds.

Erdogan this week set snap presidential and parliamentary elections for June, bringing them forward by more than a year in a shock move that may have left the opposition ill-prepared to credibly challenge him.

The United States this week said it had concerns about Turkey's ability to hold free and fair elections under emergency rule, comments that Ankara dismissed.

The United Nations last month called for an end to the state of emergency, saying it had led to "massive and serious" human rights violations in largely Kurdish southeastern Turkey, including killings and torture.

Turkey slammed that report as rife with unfounded allegations. Ankara says its measures are necessary, given the severity of the security threats it faces.

More than 160,000 people have been detained since the failed coup and a similar number of civil servants sacked from their jobs, the United Nations has said. Scores of media outlets have been shut and journalists and activists have been detained.

 
&nbsp

Erdogan this week set snap presidential and parliamentary elections for June

Businesses should welcome Turkey's state of emergency because it guards against terrorism and prevents workers from going out on strike, President Tayyip Erdogan said on Saturday. Parliament this week voted to extend the state of emergency, introduced following a failed coup in July 2016, for a further three months. It is the seventh such extension of emergency rule, which lets Erdogan and the government bypass parliament in passing new laws and allows them to suspend rights and freedoms. The extensions have been roundly criticised by human rights groups and Turkey's Western allies. The country's main business lobby, TUSIAD, this week renewed its call for a swift end to emergency rule. "The state of emergency only affects terrorists. Now it's preventing labour strikes, such as the Bursa strike, which we stopped right away. It's a struggle against terrorism," Erdogan said in a speech to the DEIK business lobby, which represents Turkey's private sector overseas. "When our business people say the state of emergency should be lifted, it upsets us... We will continue extending it for the peace of our country, yes we will, for the 10th time if necessary." Earlier this year authorities stopped workers in the northwestern city of Bursa, home to the auto industry and a hub for textile manufacturing, from going out on strike. Under emergency rule, strikes, protests and displays of civil disobedience can be shut down on security grounds. Erdogan this week set snap presidential and parliamentary elections for June, bringing them forward by more than a year in a shock move that may have left the opposition ill-prepared to credibly challenge him. The United States this week said it had concerns about Turkey's ability to hold free and fair elections under emergency rule, comments that Ankara dismissed. The United Nations last month called for an end to the state of emergency, saying it had led to "massive and serious" human rights violations in largely Kurdish southeastern Turkey, including killings and torture. Turkey slammed that report as rife with unfounded allegations. Ankara says its measures are necessary, given the severity of the security threats it faces. More than 160,000 people have been detained since the failed coup and a similar number of civil servants sacked from their jobs, the United Nations has said. Scores of media outlets have been shut and journalists and activists have been detained.

Turkey's Erdogan says emergency rule good for economy as stops terrorism, strikes

Turkey's Tayyip Erdogan on Wednesday called a snap presidential and parliamentary election on June 24, more than a year earlier than planned, saying the country urgently needed to make the switch to an executive presidency.

Bringing the elections forward means that they will take place under a state of emergency that has been in place since a July 2016 attempted coup and was extended by parliament on Wednesday for another three months.

In 15 years of rule as prime minister and later president, Erdogan has transformed a poor country at the eastern edge of Europe into a major emerging market. Yet Turkey's rapid economic growth has also come with increased authoritarianism, as Erdogan has accelerated a crackdown on dissent since the failed coup.

Erdogan and his ministers had previously dismissed the prospect of early polls. Last year he narrowly won a referendum to change the constitution and create an executive presidency, which will come into effect with the next presidential vote.

He said Turkey's military operations in neighbouring Syria "and the developments in our region of historic importance, have made it mandatory to remove the election issue from our agenda".

In a speech broadcast live on television he said it was also "urgent to switch to the new executive system in order to take steps for our country's future in a stronger way...We came to the agreement that we should approach this early election positively."&nbsp

He said he made the decision after speaking to the head of the nationalist MHP party, Devlet Bahceli, who a day earlier had floated the prospect of an early election. The elections had been slated for November 2019.

Bahceli's small MHP party is expected to form an alliance with Erdogan's AK Party in the parliamentary election.

State of emergency&nbsp

The main opposition CHP party called for an immediate end to the emergency, which allows Erdogan and the government to bypass parliament in passing new laws and allows them to suspend rights and freedoms.

"There cannot be an election under emergency rule," CHP spokesman Bulent Tezcan said. "The country needs to brought out of the emergency rule regime starting today."&nbsp

The United Nations last month called for an end to the emergency and accused Ankara of mass arrests, arbitrary sacking and other abuses. Some 160,000 people have been detained and a similar number of civil servants dismissed since the failed putsch, it said.

Media outlets have been shut down and scores of journalists have also been jailed.&nbsp

Parliament last month passed a law revamping electoral regulations that the opposition has said could open the door to fraud and jeopardise the fairness of voting. The law grants the High Electoral Board the authority to merge electoral districts and move ballot boxes to other districts.

Lira firms

Turkey's lira firmed against the dollar on Wednesday and was at 4.0189 at 1500 GMT. The yield on Turkey's benchmark bond fell some 10 basis points and the main stock index jumped more than 2 percent.

Some investors had already been factoring in the prospect of early elections, citing the difficulty of the government keeping the economy going at its current breakneck pace - it expanded at 7.3 percent in the fourth quarter - until late next year.

The economy is likely to expand 4.1 percent this year, well short of the government's target of 5.5 percent, a Reuters poll showed. Such a slowdown could hurt Erdogan, who has built much of his reputation on his stewardship of the economy, above all his record of delivering roads, hospitals and public services to millions of pious poor and middle-class people.

Investor concerns about double-digit inflation and Erdogan's pressure on the central bank to keep rates down have sent the lira to a series of record lows. The currency's sell-off may have figured in the call for early elections, some investors said.

"A continued depreciation of the currency would likely negatively impact voter behaviour and may jeopardise Erdogan’s plans for victory," said Paul Greer, a portfolio manager at Fidelity International in London.

"We read the early election announcement as a recognition from the government of a need for a tighter monetary and fiscal adjustment sooner rather than later."

Erdogan and his ministers had previously dismissed the prospect of early polls

Turkey's Tayyip Erdogan on Wednesday called a snap presidential and parliamentary election on June 24, more than a year earlier than planned, saying the country urgently needed to make the switch to an executive presidency. Bringing the elections forward means that they will take place under a state of emergency that has been in place since a July 2016 attempted coup and was extended by parliament on Wednesday for another three months. In 15 years of rule as prime minister and later president, Erdogan has transformed a poor country at the eastern edge of Europe into a major emerging market. Yet Turkey's rapid economic growth has also come with increased authoritarianism, as Erdogan has accelerated a crackdown on dissent since the failed coup. Erdogan and his ministers had previously dismissed the prospect of early polls. Last year he narrowly won a referendum to change the constitution and create an executive presidency, which will come into effect with the next presidential vote. He said Turkey's military operations in neighbouring Syria "and the developments in our region of historic importance, have made it mandatory to remove the election issue from our agenda". In a speech broadcast live on television he said it was also "urgent to switch to the new executive system in order to take steps for our country's future in a stronger way...We came to the agreement that we should approach this early election positively." He said he made the decision after speaking to the head of the nationalist MHP party, Devlet Bahceli, who a day earlier had floated the prospect of an early election. The elections had been slated for November 2019. Bahceli's small MHP party is expected to form an alliance with Erdogan's AK Party in the parliamentary election. State of emergency The main opposition CHP party called for an immediate end to the emergency, which allows Erdogan and the government to bypass parliament in passing new laws and allows them to suspend rights and freedoms. "There cannot be an election under emergency rule," CHP spokesman Bulent Tezcan said. "The country needs to brought out of the emergency rule regime starting today." The United Nations last month called for an end to the emergency and accused Ankara of mass arrests, arbitrary sacking and other abuses. Some 160,000 people have been detained and a similar number of civil servants dismissed since the failed putsch, it said. Media outlets have been shut down and scores of journalists have also been jailed. Parliament last month passed a law revamping electoral regulations that the opposition has said could open the door to fraud and jeopardise the fairness of voting. The law grants the High Electoral Board the authority to merge electoral districts and move ballot boxes to other districts. Lira firms Turkey's lira firmed against the dollar on Wednesday and was at 4.0189 at 1500 GMT. The yield on Turkey's benchmark bond fell some 10 basis points and the main stock index jumped more than 2 percent. Some investors had already been factoring in the prospect of early elections, citing the difficulty of the government keeping the economy going at its current breakneck pace - it expanded at 7.3 percent in the fourth quarter - until late next year. The economy is likely to expand 4.1 percent this year, well short of the government's target of 5.5 percent, a Reuters poll showed. Such a slowdown could hurt Erdogan, who has built much of his reputation on his stewardship of the economy, above all his record of delivering roads, hospitals and public services to millions of pious poor and middle-class people. Investor concerns about double-digit inflation and Erdogan's pressure on the central bank to keep rates down have sent the lira to a series of record lows. The currency's sell-off may have figured in the call for early elections, some investors said. "A continued depreciation of the currency would likely negatively impact voter behaviour and may jeopardise Erdogan’s plans for victory," said Paul Greer, a portfolio manager at Fidelity International in London. "We read the early election announcement as a recognition from the government of a need for a tighter monetary and fiscal adjustment sooner rather than later."

Turkey's Erdogan declares early elections on June 24

Turkey's ties with Russia are too strong to be broken by France's president, foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said on Monday, after Emmanuel Macron said Ankara's support of missile strikes on Syria showed it had "separated" from Russia.

At a joint news conference with NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg in Ankara, Cavusoglu added that Turkey's relations with Russia were not an alternative to its ties with NATO, France and the United States.

Macron had said Ankara's support of missile strikes on Syria showed it had "separated" from Russia.

Turkey's ties with Russia are too strong to be broken by France's president, foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said on Monday, after Emmanuel Macron said Ankara's support of missile strikes on Syria showed it had "separated" from Russia. At a joint news conference with NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg in Ankara, Cavusoglu added that Turkey's relations with Russia were not an alternative to its ties with NATO, France and the United States.

Our ties with Russia too strong to be broken by Macron: Turkey

US, Britain and France-led airstrikes on Syria have been welcomed by Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan. He noted that the operation sent a message to Syrian counterpart Bashar al-Assad.

Erdogan noted that the joint operation on Saturday by US, UK and France gave out a message to the Syrian regime that "its massacres would not be left unanswered".&nbsp;

"With the joint operation by US, UK&nbsp;and France on Saturday, the Syrian regime received the message that its massacres wouldn't be left unanswered," Erdogan told his ruling AK Party supporters in an Istanbul meeting.

"The innocent Syrian people should have been defended long ago," Erdogan added.

(With inputs from Reuters)&nbsp;

Erdogan noted that the joint operation on Saturday led by US, UK and France gave out a strong message to the Syrian regime

US, Britain and France-led airstrikes on Syria have been welcomed by Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan. He noted that the operation sent a message to Syrian counterpart Bashar al-Assad. Erdogan noted that the joint operation on Saturday by US, UK and France gave out a message to the Syrian regime that "its massacres would not be left unanswered". "With the joint operation by US, UK and France on Saturday, the Syrian regime received the message that its massacres wouldn't be left unanswered," Erdogan told his ruling AK Party supporters in an Istanbul meeting. "The innocent Syrian people should have been defended long ago," Erdogan added. (With inputs from Reuters)

Turkey's Erdogan welcomes Western attack on Syria

Turkey was today deporting hundreds of Afghan migrants back home on special flights, in a major operation after thousands illegally entered the country in recent weeks.

Early Sunday morning 227 Afghan migrants boarded a charter flight from Erzurum in northeastern Turkey back to Kabul, the Dogan news agency said.

It said a total of 691 Afghan migrants would be deported this week with two more flights expected from Erzurum to Kabul later. The flights are being provided by an Afghan airline.

Dogan news agency quoted migration officials in Erzurum as saying Turkey planned to deport all 3,000 Afghan migrants who were currently in Erzurum.

In Kabul, officials denied that the refugees were being deported, insisting they were coming back home at their own choice.

"A number of Afghan refugees are coming back to the country of their own will," said Islamuddin Jurat, spokesman for the ministry of refugees and repatriations.

"They are the ones who wanted to use Turkey as a transit route to other countries, but when they failed they decided to come back."

Turkey is a major hub for migrants from Afghanistan and other troubled nations seeking to cross from Asia into Europe in search better lives and work.

Over a million migrants and refugees entered Europe largely through Turkey in 2015, prompting the EU to agree a deal with Ankara on curbing the migration in 2016.

There has been a major influx of migrants into Turkey from conflict-plagued Afghanistan in recent weeks, with reports saying almost 18,000 have entered the country illegally in the last three months.

The Afghan migrants are believed to have crossed from Iran into Turkeys eastern Van province and then moved - sometimes walking on highways on foot - to Erzurum, one of the major cities of Turkeys east.

The deportations came as Turkish Prime Minister Binali Yildirim visited Kabul for talks with Afghan leaders. On Sunday he met Afghanistans chief executive Abdullah Abdullah.

Turkish state media quoted Yildirim as saying at a news conference with Abdullah in Kabul that Turkey was grateful for Afghanistan's cooperation over the issue.

"There is no problem here," said Yildirim.

But Turkish television carried interviews with some of the migrants about to be deported - many of whom spoke excellent Turkish - who insisted that they would try and come back to Turkey.

"Of course (I will try to come back)," one woman, who was not named, told the CNN Turk channel. "Back home, there is unemployment and a lack of security."

Early Sunday morning 227 Afghan migrants boarded a charter flight from Erzurum in northeastern Turkey back to Kabul, the Dogan news agency said

Turkey was today deporting hundreds of Afghan migrants back home on special flights, in a major operation after thousands illegally entered the country in recent weeks. Early Sunday morning 227 Afghan migrants boarded a charter flight from Erzurum in northeastern Turkey back to Kabul, the Dogan news agency said. It said a total of 691 Afghan migrants would be deported this week with two more flights expected from Erzurum to Kabul later. The flights are being provided by an Afghan airline. Dogan news agency quoted migration officials in Erzurum as saying Turkey planned to deport all 3,000 Afghan migrants who were currently in Erzurum. In Kabul, officials denied that the refugees were being deported, insisting they were coming back home at their own choice. "A number of Afghan refugees are coming back to the country of their own will," said Islamuddin Jurat, spokesman for the ministry of refugees and repatriations. "They are the ones who wanted to use Turkey as a transit route to other countries, but when they failed they decided to come back." Turkey is a major hub for migrants from Afghanistan and other troubled nations seeking to cross from Asia into Europe in search better lives and work. Over a million migrants and refugees entered Europe largely through Turkey in 2015, prompting the EU to agree a deal with Ankara on curbing the migration in 2016. There has been a major influx of migrants into Turkey from conflict-plagued Afghanistan in recent weeks, with reports saying almost 18,000 have entered the country illegally in the last three months. The Afghan migrants are believed to have crossed from Iran into Turkeys eastern Van province and then moved - sometimes walking on highways on foot - to Erzurum, one of the major cities of Turkeys east. The deportations came as Turkish Prime Minister Binali Yildirim visited Kabul for talks with Afghan leaders. On Sunday he met Afghanistans chief executive Abdullah Abdullah. Turkish state media quoted Yildirim as saying at a news conference with Abdullah in Kabul that Turkey was grateful for Afghanistan's cooperation over the issue. "There is no problem here," said Yildirim. But Turkish television carried interviews with some of the migrants about to be deported - many of whom spoke excellent Turkish - who insisted that they would try and come back to Turkey. "Of course (I will try to come back)," one woman, who was not named, told the CNN Turk channel. "Back home, there is unemployment and a lack of security."

Turkey deports hundreds of Afghan migrants after influx

Turkish foreign ministry has condemned the use of chemical weapons in a rebel-held Syrian town, Douma.

"We strongly condemn the attack, which there is strong suspicion was carried out by the regime, whose record on the use of chemical weapons is known by the international community," the ministry said.

Dozens of people were killed in the chemical attack carried out on the rebel-held town in eastern Ghouta.

Turkey has been working with allies of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad for a political resolution to the crisis in Syria. Tayyip Erdogan-led government has also pressed for international action against the attacks in Douma.

"The Syrian regime must give an account for the attacks in various regions of the country at different times," President Erdogan's spokesman noted.

"The entire international community, primarily countries that have an influence on the Syrian regime, has a responsibility to take the necessary steps in order to prevent similar war crimes and crimes against humanity," noted the official statement.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Turkey has been working with allies of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad for a political resolution to the crisis in Syria

Turkish foreign ministry has condemned the use of chemical weapons in a rebel-held Syrian town, Douma. "We strongly condemn the attack, which there is strong suspicion was carried out by the regime, whose record on the use of chemical weapons is known by the international community," the ministry said. Dozens of people were killed in the chemical attack carried out on the rebel-held town in eastern Ghouta. Turkey has been working with allies of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad for a political resolution to the crisis in Syria. Tayyip Erdogan-led government has also pressed for international action against the attacks in Douma. "The Syrian regime must give an account for the attacks in various regions of the country at different times," President Erdogan's spokesman noted. "The entire international community, primarily countries that have an influence on the Syrian regime, has a responsibility to take the necessary steps in order to prevent similar war crimes and crimes against humanity," noted the official statement. (With inputs from agencies)

Turkey condemns use of chemical weapons in Douma, Syria

Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan on Saturday accused France of abetting terrorists by "hosting them" at the Elysee Palace, amid a diplomatic row between the NATO allies over Paris`s support for the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF).

"France is abetting terrorists by hosting them at the presidential palace... as long as you nurture these terrorists, the West will drown," Erdogan told his supporters in the southwestern province of Denizli.

Last month, Turkey said a French pledge to help stabilise a region of northern Syria controlled by Kurdish-dominated forces amounted to support for terrorism and could make France a "target of Turkey".

'France is abetting terrorists by hosting them at the presidential palace... as long as you nurture these terrorists, the West will drown,' Erdogan told his supporters in the southwestern province of Denizli

Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan on Saturday accused France of abetting terrorists by "hosting them" at the Elysee Palace, amid a diplomatic row between the NATO allies over Paris`s support for the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). "France is abetting terrorists by hosting them at the presidential palace... as long as you nurture these terrorists, the West will drown," Erdogan told his supporters in the southwestern province of Denizli. Last month, Turkey said a French pledge to help stabilise a region of northern Syria controlled by Kurdish-dominated forces amounted to support for terrorism and could make France a "target of Turkey".

Turkey's Erdogan says France is abetting terrorists

Four people were killed on Thursday in a shooting at the Osmangazi University in Turkey's northwestern province of Eskisehir, the state-run Anadolu news agency said.

 
The shooter, a researcher at the university, shot dead the assistant dean, faculty secretary, lecturer, and a staff member from the education faculty of the university, Anadolu said.

 
Police had detained the shooter, CNN Turkey said.

Police had detained the shooter, CNN Turkey said

Four people were killed on Thursday in a shooting at the Osmangazi University in Turkey's northwestern province of Eskisehir, the state-run Anadolu news agency said. The shooter, a researcher at the university, shot dead the assistant dean, faculty secretary, lecturer, and a staff member from the education faculty of the university, Anadolu said. Police had detained the shooter, CNN Turkey said.

Four people killed in a shooting at Turkish university: Anadolu Agency

The planned delivery of Russian S-400 surface-to-air missile batteries to Turkey has been brought forward to July 2019, the Turkish undersecretary for defence industries said, from the first quarter of 2020.

Turkey and Russia signed the S-400 accord in December, finalising a deal which deepened military ties between NATO member Turkey and the Kremlin.

The deal, reportedly worth some $2.5 billion, has worried the West because the system cannot be integrated into NATO's military architecture.

"We brought forward the delivery date in the accord signed with Russia to provide the S-400 system and got a date of July 2019," Turkish Undersecretary for Defence Industries Ismail Demir wrote on Twitter overnight.

His comment came after the two countries' presidents held talks&nbsp;on Tuesday&nbsp;and marked the official start of work to build Turkey's $20 billion first nuclear power station at Akkuyu on its Mediterranean coast.

Turkey and Russia signed the S-400 accord in December, finalising a deal which deepened military ties between NATO member Turkey and the Kremlin

The planned delivery of Russian S-400 surface-to-air missile batteries to Turkey has been brought forward to July 2019, the Turkish undersecretary for defence industries said, from the first quarter of 2020. Turkey and Russia signed the S-400 accord in December, finalising a deal which deepened military ties between NATO member Turkey and the Kremlin. The deal, reportedly worth some $2.5 billion, has worried the West because the system cannot be integrated into NATO's military architecture. "We brought forward the delivery date in the accord signed with Russia to provide the S-400 system and got a date of July 2019," Turkish Undersecretary for Defence Industries Ismail Demir wrote on Twitter overnight. His comment came after the two countries' presidents held talks on Tuesday and marked the official start of work to build Turkey's $20 billion first nuclear power station at Akkuyu on its Mediterranean coast.

Turkey says Russian S-400 missile delivery brought forward to July 2019

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin on Tuesday launched the construction of Turkey`s first nuclear power plant in the Mediterranean Mersin region.

"In the name of God!" Erdogan said standing next to Putin at the presidential palace in Ankara as he ordered through a video link the launch of the $20 billion dollar Akkuyu nuclear power plant project.&nbsp

State television TRT showed workers already starting work on the ground as fireworks went off to mark the event.

Once completed the power station will provide 10 per cent of the electricity needs of Turkey, which has few energy resources of its own.&nbsp

The first stage is due to come online in 2023, the 100th anniversary of modern Turkey`s founding, and be completed entirely in 2026.

"This scale of the project is difficult to exaggerate," Putin said at the ceremony. "This marks a new stage in the development of Turkey`s economy."

Erdogan said: "The power plant will contribute to our energy security and also play an important role in the fight against climate change."

Turkey`s Energy Minister Berat Albayrak, Erdogan`s son-in-law, praised the Akkuyu project saying: "We are standing at a crucial juncture in realising the 63-year dream."

Turkey and Russia have forged burgeoning ties in recent months on a number of areas including energy as well as the Syrian crisis, despite differences on key policy areas.

"We are also in close cooperation with Russia to end as soon as possible the terror threat and clashes in Syria," Erdogan said.

Key Syrian regime backers Russia and Iran have joined forces with rebel-supporting Turkey to push forward a peace process but also to ensure influence in Syria once the conflict ends.

Once completed the power station will provide 10 per cent of the electricity needs of Turkey, which has few energy resources of its own

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin on Tuesday launched the construction of Turkey`s first nuclear power plant in the Mediterranean Mersin region. "In the name of God!" Erdogan said standing next to Putin at the presidential palace in Ankara as he ordered through a video link the launch of the $20 billion dollar Akkuyu nuclear power plant project. State television TRT showed workers already starting work on the ground as fireworks went off to mark the event. Once completed the power station will provide 10 per cent of the electricity needs of Turkey, which has few energy resources of its own. The first stage is due to come online in 2023, the 100th anniversary of modern Turkey`s founding, and be completed entirely in 2026. "This scale of the project is difficult to exaggerate," Putin said at the ceremony. "This marks a new stage in the development of Turkey`s economy." Erdogan said: "The power plant will contribute to our energy security and also play an important role in the fight against climate change." Turkey`s Energy Minister Berat Albayrak, Erdogan`s son-in-law, praised the Akkuyu project saying: "We are standing at a crucial juncture in realising the 63-year dream." Turkey and Russia have forged burgeoning ties in recent months on a number of areas including energy as well as the Syrian crisis, despite differences on key policy areas. "We are also in close cooperation with Russia to end as soon as possible the terror threat and clashes in Syria," Erdogan said. Key Syrian regime backers Russia and Iran have joined forces with rebel-supporting Turkey to push forward a peace process but also to ensure influence in Syria once the conflict ends.

Putin, Erdogan launch construction of Turkey's first nuclear power plant

Turkey said on Friday that a French pledge to help stabilise a region of northern Syria controlled by Kurdish-dominated forces amounted to support for terrorism and could make France a "target of Turkey".

French backing for the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), spearheaded by the Kurdish YPG militia, has angered Ankara at a time when it is fighting the YPG in northern Syria and considers it a terrorist organisation.

President Tayyip Erdogan said France had taken a "completely wrong approach" on Syria, adding that he exchanged heated words with his French counterpart, Emmanuel Macron, last week.

The split with France is the latest rift between Turkey under Erdogan and its NATO allies in the West.

Turkey has long complained about US&nbspsupport for the SDF, among a number of irritants to ties with the leading NATO power. Last year it compared the German and Dutch authorities to Nazis for restricting pro-Erdogan demonstrations during a campaign for a referendum to give him greater powers.

The White House said President Donald Trump, who added fresh uncertainty on Thursday when he said that the United States would be "coming out of Syria" very soon, spoke to Erdogan on Friday "to discuss regional developments and the strategic partnership between the United States and Turkey".

"The two leaders expressed support for continued efforts to increase cooperation between their two countries, to advance shared interests as NATO allies, and to work through issues that affect the bilateral relationship," a White House statement said.&nbsp

Turkish Deputy Prime Minister Bekir Bozdag said the French stance was setting Paris on a collision course with Ankara.&nbsp

"Those who enter into cooperation and solidarity with terror groups against Turkey ... will, like the terrorists, become a target of Turkey," Bozdag, who is also the Turkish government spokesman, wrote on Twitter. "We hope France does not take such an irrational step."

Macron met an SDF delegation on Thursday and gave assurances of French support to stabilise northern Syria. A presidential source later said France could increase its military contribution to the US-led coalition which - alongside the SDF - is fighting Islamic State in Syria.

The United States has 2,000 troops in SDF-held territory, and France also has some troops there as part of the coalition.

Ankara considers the YPG fighters in the SDF to be an extension of Kurdish militants who have waged a decades-old insurgency in southeast Turkey.&nbsp

Turkish forces drove the YPG from the northwestern Syrian town of Afrin nearly two weeks ago and Erdogan says Ankara is preparing to extend operations along hundreds of miles of border, including areas where the American forces are deployed.

The Afrin operation has already drawn international criticism, notably from Macron. Ankara, meanwhile, has said it expects its allies to move their troops out of the way of a Turkish advance.

"We have no intention to harm soldiers of allied nations, but we cannot allow terrorists to roam freely (in northern Syria)," Erdogan said.

One US&nbspservice member and one other member of the US-led coalition were killed by a bomb in Syria overnight, the first to die in an attack this year.&nbsp

Trump surprise

Trump's remark on Thursday that the United States would be "coming out of Syria" appeared to take his own administration by surprise.&nbsp

US&nbspofficials have said in recent months that Washington planned to keep an open-ended presence in northern Syria, to support stability in the SDF-controlled region, prevent any Islamic State resurgence and counter Iranian influence.

SDF spokesman Kino Gabriel said the force had not been informed of any US&nbspwithdrawal plan.

"Our work and coordination (with the coalition) is continuing," Gabriel told Reuters in a written message.

Asked whether US&nbspforces had been informed of a decision to withdraw or were preparing to do so, a spokesman for the coalition said he would not comment on future operations.

A PYD member in Paris said Macron had promised at Thursday's meeting with the SDF to send more troops to northern Syria, provide humanitarian assistance and push a diplomatic solution.

The French presidency did not confirm that Macron had pledged more troops, but the presidential source said France could bolster its military intervention in Syria "within the existing framework" of the US-led coalition.

The presidency also said Macron was offering to mediate between Turkey and the SDF - a suggestion Erdogan dismissed.

"Do not engage in things beyond you, we do not need a mediator," he said, responding to the French offer in remarks to members of his ruling AK Party in Ankara. "Who are you to speak of mediation between Turkey and a terrorist organisation?"&nbsp

Accusing Paris of appeasing terrorism, he said Macron would be held accountable for his policy by his own people.

"We hope France doesn't come to us for help when the terrorists running from Syria and Iraq fill their country after being encouraged by their policy," he said.&nbsp

Erdogan spoke last week with Macron about the French president's criticism of Turkey's Afrin campaign.

"He was saying weird things and so, even if it was a bit high-octane, I had to tell him some things," Erdogan said. "It is not anyone's place to portray our armed forces as something we do not find acceptable."

President Tayyip Erdogan said France had taken a 'completely wrong approach' on Syria

Turkey said on Friday that a French pledge to help stabilise a region of northern Syria controlled by Kurdish-dominated forces amounted to support for terrorism and could make France a "target of Turkey". French backing for the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), spearheaded by the Kurdish YPG militia, has angered Ankara at a time when it is fighting the YPG in northern Syria and considers it a terrorist organisation. President Tayyip Erdogan said France had taken a "completely wrong approach" on Syria, adding that he exchanged heated words with his French counterpart, Emmanuel Macron, last week. The split with France is the latest rift between Turkey under Erdogan and its NATO allies in the West. Turkey has long complained about US&nbspsupport for the SDF, among a number of irritants to ties with the leading NATO power. Last year it compared the German and Dutch authorities to Nazis for restricting pro-Erdogan demonstrations during a campaign for a referendum to give him greater powers. The White House said President Donald Trump, who added fresh uncertainty on Thursday when he said that the United States would be "coming out of Syria" very soon, spoke to Erdogan on Friday "to discuss regional developments and the strategic partnership between the United States and Turkey". "The two leaders expressed support for continued efforts to increase cooperation between their two countries, to advance shared interests as NATO allies, and to work through issues that affect the bilateral relationship," a White House statement said. Turkish Deputy Prime Minister Bekir Bozdag said the French stance was setting Paris on a collision course with Ankara. "Those who enter into cooperation and solidarity with terror groups against Turkey ... will, like the terrorists, become a target of Turkey," Bozdag, who is also the Turkish government spokesman, wrote on Twitter. "We hope France does not take such an irrational step." Macron met an SDF delegation on Thursday and gave assurances of French support to stabilise northern Syria. A presidential source later said France could increase its military contribution to the US-led coalition which - alongside the SDF - is fighting Islamic State in Syria. The United States has 2,000 troops in SDF-held territory, and France also has some troops there as part of the coalition. Ankara considers the YPG fighters in the SDF to be an extension of Kurdish militants who have waged a decades-old insurgency in southeast Turkey. Turkish forces drove the YPG from the northwestern Syrian town of Afrin nearly two weeks ago and Erdogan says Ankara is preparing to extend operations along hundreds of miles of border, including areas where the American forces are deployed. The Afrin operation has already drawn international criticism, notably from Macron. Ankara, meanwhile, has said it expects its allies to move their troops out of the way of a Turkish advance. "We have no intention to harm soldiers of allied nations, but we cannot allow terrorists to roam freely (in northern Syria)," Erdogan said. One US&nbspservice member and one other member of the US-led coalition were killed by a bomb in Syria overnight, the first to die in an attack this year. Trump surprise Trump's remark on Thursday that the United States would be "coming out of Syria" appeared to take his own administration by surprise. US&nbspofficials have said in recent months that Washington planned to keep an open-ended presence in northern Syria, to support stability in the SDF-controlled region, prevent any Islamic State resurgence and counter Iranian influence. SDF spokesman Kino Gabriel said the force had not been informed of any US&nbspwithdrawal plan. "Our work and coordination (with the coalition) is continuing," Gabriel told Reuters in a written message. Asked whether US&nbspforces had been informed of a decision to withdraw or were preparing to do so, a spokesman for the coalition said he would not comment on future operations. A PYD member in Paris said Macron had promised at Thursday's meeting with the SDF to send more troops to northern Syria, provide humanitarian assistance and push a diplomatic solution. The French presidency did not confirm that Macron had pledged more troops, but the presidential source said France could bolster its military intervention in Syria "within the existing framework" of the US-led coalition. The presidency also said Macron was offering to mediate between Turkey and the SDF - a suggestion Erdogan dismissed. "Do not engage in things beyond you, we do not need a mediator," he said, responding to the French offer in remarks to members of his ruling AK Party in Ankara. "Who are you to speak of mediation between Turkey and a terrorist organisation?" Accusing Paris of appeasing terrorism, he said Macron would be held accountable for his policy by his own people. "We hope France doesn't come to us for help when the terrorists running from Syria and Iraq fill their country after being encouraged by their policy," he said. Erdogan spoke last week with Macron about the French president's criticism of Turkey's Afrin campaign. "He was saying weird things and so, even if it was a bit high-octane, I had to tell him some things," Erdogan said. "It is not anyone's place to portray our armed forces as something we do not find acceptable."

Turkey says France could become 'target' for backing Syria Kurds

France has offered to mediate between Turkey and the Kurdish-dominated Syrian Democratic Forces, and assured the SDF of Paris’ support in stabilizing northern Syria, President Emmanuel Macron’s office said on Thursday.

Speaking after Macron met a delegation from northern Syria that included the Kurdish YPG militia, Khaled Eissa, a Kurdish official based in Paris, said Macron had promised to send French troops to Manbij to support the fight against Islamic State and dissuade Turkey from advancing on the town.

The president’s office declined to comment on that. 
&nbsp

France has offered to mediate between Turkey and the Kurdish-dominated Syrian Democratic Forces, and assured the SDF of Paris’ support in stabilizing northern Syria, President Emmanuel Macron’s office said

France has offered to mediate between Turkey and the Kurdish-dominated Syrian Democratic Forces, and assured the SDF of Paris’ support in stabilizing northern Syria, President Emmanuel Macron’s office said on Thursday. Speaking after Macron met a delegation from northern Syria that included the Kurdish YPG militia, Khaled Eissa, a Kurdish official based in Paris, said Macron had promised to send French troops to Manbij to support the fight against Islamic State and dissuade Turkey from advancing on the town. The president’s office declined to comment on that.

Syria war: France's Macron offers to mediate between Turkey and Syrian Kurds

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan signalled Turkey has no plans to follow its NATO and EU allies in expelling Russian diplomats following a spy poisoning in Britain blamed on Moscow, in comments published on Wednesday.

Erdogan, who has forged an increasingly close alliance with Russian President Vladimir Putin, said Turkey could not take steps against Moscow "based on an allegation".

More than two dozen governments -- the majority European Union and NATO members -- expelled nearly 150 suspected Russian spies after the March 4 attack on former Russian double agent Sergei Skripal and his daughter in the English city of Salisbury.

"Just because some countries took a step based on an allegation, we cannot decide to take the same step," Erdogan said in comments to Turkish journalists published by the Hurriyet newspaper and others.

"There is no question that we must act completely like them," added Erdogan, who earlier this week met EU chiefs for a crunch summit in Bulgaria.

London and its allies were quick to put the blame on Russia, which denies any involvement.

The discovery that Soviet-designed nerve agent Novichok was used against the pair and Russia's record on targeting dissidents have put the spotlight on the Kremlin.

The Turkish foreign ministry on Monday issued its first statement on the poisoning -- over three weeks after the attack -- condemning the use of a chemical agent but without mentioning Russia.

Putin is due to arrive in Turkey next week for a two-day visit that will also include a three-way summit on Syria with Iranian President Hassan Rouhani aimed at strengthening cooperation.

To the alarm of Brussels, ties between Moscow and Ankara have flourished in recent months while Turkey is set to buy Russia`s S-400 air defence systems.

Turkish Deputy Prime Minister Bekir Bozdag on Monday stressed the historical regional rivals have a "positive and good relationship right now".

Moscow and Ankara endured a severe crisis over the shooting down of a Russian warplane over Syria in 2015. But analysts say that Erdogan has now made a strong relationship with Moscow a pillar of Turkish foreign policy.

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan signalled Turkey has no plans to follow its NATO and EU allies in expelling Russian diplomats following a spy poisoning in Britain blamed on Moscow, in comments published on Wednesday

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan signalled Turkey has no plans to follow its NATO and EU allies in expelling Russian diplomats following a spy poisoning in Britain blamed on Moscow, in comments published on Wednesday. Erdogan, who has forged an increasingly close alliance with Russian President Vladimir Putin, said Turkey could not take steps against Moscow "based on an allegation". More than two dozen governments -- the majority European Union and NATO members -- expelled nearly 150 suspected Russian spies after the March 4 attack on former Russian double agent Sergei Skripal and his daughter in the English city of Salisbury. "Just because some countries took a step based on an allegation, we cannot decide to take the same step," Erdogan said in comments to Turkish journalists published by the Hurriyet newspaper and others. "There is no question that we must act completely like them," added Erdogan, who earlier this week met EU chiefs for a crunch summit in Bulgaria. London and its allies were quick to put the blame on Russia, which denies any involvement. The discovery that Soviet-designed nerve agent Novichok was used against the pair and Russia's record on targeting dissidents have put the spotlight on the Kremlin. The Turkish foreign ministry on Monday issued its first statement on the poisoning -- over three weeks after the attack -- condemning the use of a chemical agent but without mentioning Russia. Putin is due to arrive in Turkey next week for a two-day visit that will also include a three-way summit on Syria with Iranian President Hassan Rouhani aimed at strengthening cooperation. To the alarm of Brussels, ties between Moscow and Ankara have flourished in recent months while Turkey is set to buy Russia`s S-400 air defence systems. Turkish Deputy Prime Minister Bekir Bozdag on Monday stressed the historical regional rivals have a "positive and good relationship right now". Moscow and Ankara endured a severe crisis over the shooting down of a Russian warplane over Syria in 2015. But analysts say that Erdogan has now made a strong relationship with Moscow a pillar of Turkish foreign policy.

Turkey won't act against Russia 'based on allegation': Erdogan

The Foreign Minister of Turkey Mevlut Cavusoglu on Tuesday welcomed Afghanistan's unconditional call to initiate a peace process with the militant group Taliban.

"We welcome the call of Afghan President Ashraf Ghani for starting negotiations with the Taliban without preconditions," Cavusoglu said while addressing the Tashkent Conference on Afghanistan in the Uzbek capital, as reported by the Anadolu Agency.

Earlier on March 25, Afghan President Ashraf Ghani said he was optimistic to end the four-year-old insurgency crises in the country while saying that the on-going peace process was on for national consensus.

Cavusoglu further urged various groups that are active within Afghanistan to recognise the ruling Afghan government.

"We want all the groups in Afghanistan to recognize the Afghan government, condemn violence and become part of legitimate politics," Cavusoglu added.

He further emphasized on the need of the participation by the international agencies to help in the reconciliation process.

Speaking at the same conference, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov underscored the importance of a constructive dialogue between Afghanistan and Taliban for peace and stability in the country.

Further European Union foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini said it to be an exemplary opportunity for peace.

Earlier on February 28 Afghan President Ashraf Ghani dwelled on a plan to conduct a peace process with Taliban which might include the latter to be declared as a political party.

However, the Taliban group is yet to respond to President Ghani's offer.&nbsp

Earlier on March 25, Afghan President Ashraf Ghani said he was optimistic to end the four-year-old insurgency crises in the country while saying that the on-going peace process was on for national consensus

The Foreign Minister of Turkey Mevlut Cavusoglu on Tuesday welcomed Afghanistan's unconditional call to initiate a peace process with the militant group Taliban. "We welcome the call of Afghan President Ashraf Ghani for starting negotiations with the Taliban without preconditions," Cavusoglu said while addressing the Tashkent Conference on Afghanistan in the Uzbek capital, as reported by the Anadolu Agency. Earlier on March 25, Afghan President Ashraf Ghani said he was optimistic to end the four-year-old insurgency crises in the country while saying that the on-going peace process was on for national consensus. Cavusoglu further urged various groups that are active within Afghanistan to recognise the ruling Afghan government. "We want all the groups in Afghanistan to recognize the Afghan government, condemn violence and become part of legitimate politics," Cavusoglu added. He further emphasized on the need of the participation by the international agencies to help in the reconciliation process. Speaking at the same conference, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov underscored the importance of a constructive dialogue between Afghanistan and Taliban for peace and stability in the country. Further European Union foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini said it to be an exemplary opportunity for peace. Earlier on February 28 Afghan President Ashraf Ghani dwelled on a plan to conduct a peace process with Taliban which might include the latter to be declared as a political party. However, the Taliban group is yet to respond to President Ghani's offer.

Turkey welcomes Afghan's call for peace process with Taliban

At least 41 terrorists belonging to the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PYD/PKK) have been "neutralised" in an air operation conducted by the Turkish forces.

The word "neutralised" is used to imply that the terrorists in question either surrendered or were killed or captured.

Anadolu Agency quoted the Turkish Army on Tuesday as saying that the operation was carried out on March 22 in northern Iraq's Qandil region.

Turkish General Staff said in a statement that the terrorists were plotting an attack on Turkish forces.

On Saturday, the Turkish military said they have neutralised at least 3,733 terrorists belonging to the PYD/PKK and Islamic State (IS) group in a military operation in Syria's Afrin region.

Turkish General Staff said in a statement that the terrorists were plotting an attack on Turkish forces

At least 41 terrorists belonging to the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PYD/PKK) have been "neutralised" in an air operation conducted by the Turkish forces. The word "neutralised" is used to imply that the terrorists in question either surrendered or were killed or captured. Anadolu Agency quoted the Turkish Army on Tuesday as saying that the operation was carried out on March 22 in northern Iraq's Qandil region. Turkish General Staff said in a statement that the terrorists were plotting an attack on Turkish forces. On Saturday, the Turkish military said they have neutralised at least 3,733 terrorists belonging to the PYD/PKK and Islamic State (IS) group in a military operation in Syria's Afrin region.

Turkey 'neutralises' 41 terrorists in northern Iraq

Iraq`s armed forces have instructions to prevent "foreign fighters" from launching cross-border attacks on Turkey, Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi told his Turkish counterpart Benali Yildirim.

 
Abadi`s office said&nbsp;on Tuesday&nbsp;the two officials discussed the situation on the border by telephone.

&nbsp;

Abadi`s office said on Tuesday the two officials discussed the situation on the border by telephone

Iraq`s armed forces have instructions to prevent "foreign fighters" from launching cross-border attacks on Turkey, Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi told his Turkish counterpart Benali Yildirim. Abadi`s office said on Tuesday the two officials discussed the situation on the border by telephone.

Iraq opposes cross-border attacks on Turkey, Iraqi PM Abadi tells Turkey's Yildirim

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/gun-violence-in-united-states-student-led-protests-draw-huge-crowds-36966" target="_blank">Over 1 million Americans pour out onto streets, demand tighter gun control</a>

More than a million Americans flooded the streets of cities nationwide for emotional protests demanding tighter gun control on Saturday, protests spearheaded by teenagers from a Florida high school where 17 people were shot dead last month.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/90-rajya-sabha-mps-are-crorepatis-adr-report-36972" target="_blank">90% Rajya Sabha MPs are crorepatis: Report</a>

Nearly 90 per cent of the Rajya Sabha MPs are crorepatis while the average of total assets Upper House parliamentarians is Rs 55 crore, says a report.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/granddaughter-of-martin-luther-king-jr-energizes-march-for-our-lives-crowd-36969" target="_blank">US protests: Martin Luther King&#39;s granddaughter leads crowd calling for gun reform</a>

The granddaughter of the late civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. energised the crowd in Washington on Saturday (March 24) during the March For Our Lives Rally demanding tighter gun laws, led by survivors of last month&#39;s Florida school massacre which reignited public anger over mass shootings.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-takes-full-control-of-syrias-afrin-military-source-36971" target="_blank">Turkey takes full control of Syria&#39;s Afrin: Military source</a>

Turkey&rsquo;s military and its Syrian rebel allies have taken full control of northwest Syria&rsquo;s Afrin region, a Turkish army source said on Saturday, as aid workers distributed food to people in the area.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-captain-smith-fights-for-job-as-ca-announce-ball-tamper-probe-36980" target="_blank">Australia captain Steve Smith fights for job</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-captain-smith-fights-for-job-as-ca-announce-ball-tamper-probe-36980" target="_blank"> as CA announce </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-captain-smith-fights-for-job-as-ca-announce-ball-tamper-probe-36980" target="_blank">ball-tampering</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-captain-smith-fights-for-job-as-ca-announce-ball-tamper-probe-36980" target="_blank"> probe</a>

Australia captain Steve Smith was fighting to save his job and reputation on Sunday after admitting he was the chief plotter in the ball-tampering scandal which has plunged the game into crisis and sparked a Cricket Australia probe.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Over 1 million Americans pour out onto streets, demand tighter gun control More than a million Americans flooded the streets of cities nationwide for emotional protests demanding tighter gun control on Saturday, protests spearheaded by teenagers from a Florida high school where 17 people were shot dead last month. 90% Rajya Sabha MPs are crorepatis: Report Nearly 90 per cent of the Rajya Sabha MPs are crorepatis while the average of total assets Upper House parliamentarians is Rs 55 crore, says a report. US protests: Martin Luther King's granddaughter leads crowd calling for gun reform The granddaughter of the late civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. energised the crowd in Washington on Saturday (March 24) during the March For Our Lives Rally demanding tighter gun laws, led by survivors of last month's Florida school massacre which reignited public anger over mass shootings. Turkey takes full control of Syria's Afrin: Military source Turkey’s military and its Syrian rebel allies have taken full control of northwest Syria’s Afrin region, a Turkish army source said on Saturday, as aid workers distributed food to people in the area. Australia captain Steve Smith fights for job as CA announce ball-tampering probe Australia captain Steve Smith was fighting to save his job and reputation on Sunday after admitting he was the chief plotter in the ball-tampering scandal which has plunged the game into crisis and sparked a Cricket Australia probe.

WION Morning News Brief, March 25, 2018

Turkey continues to hold talks with the Franco-Italian Eurosam consortium and the United States to buy missile defense systems, Ankara&#39;s foreign ministry spokesman said on Friday.

The US has decided to offer the country an alternative to the Russian S-440s, reports say. The decision comes following threats by the US lawmakers to introduce sanctions against Russia if it sells its S-400 Triumf mobile surface-to-air missile systems to other countries.&nbsp;

As per reports, US State Department acting assistant secretary of state for political-military affairs Tina Kaidanow is expected to travel to Turkey next week to offer Ankara the US Patriot surface-to-air missile system.

In January, Turkey awarded Eurosam an 18-month contract for a study into the development and production of a long-range air and missile defence system, in a move towards closer defence cooperation with France and Italy.

In December last year, Turkey and Russia signed an accord for Moscow to supply Ankara with S-400 surface-to-air missile batteries, finalising a deal set to deepen military ties between NATO member Turkey and the Kremlin.&nbsp;

Russia and Turkey reached an agreement of US $2.5 billion on the sale of S-400 in 2017 and is expected to ship the first batch by 2019.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Russia and US reached an agreement of US $2.5 billion on the sale of S-400 in 2017 and is expected to ship the first batch by 2019

Turkey continues to hold talks with the Franco-Italian Eurosam consortium and the United States to buy missile defense systems, Ankara's foreign ministry spokesman said on Friday. The US has decided to offer the country an alternative to the Russian S-440s, reports say. The decision comes following threats by the US lawmakers to introduce sanctions against Russia if it sells its S-400 Triumf mobile surface-to-air missile systems to other countries. As per reports, US State Department acting assistant secretary of state for political-military affairs Tina Kaidanow is expected to travel to Turkey next week to offer Ankara the US Patriot surface-to-air missile system. In January, Turkey awarded Eurosam an 18-month contract for a study into the development and production of a long-range air and missile defence system, in a move towards closer defence cooperation with France and Italy. In December last year, Turkey and Russia signed an accord for Moscow to supply Ankara with S-400 surface-to-air missile batteries, finalising a deal set to deepen military ties between NATO member Turkey and the Kremlin. Russia and Turkey reached an agreement of US $2.5 billion on the sale of S-400 in 2017 and is expected to ship the first batch by 2019.

Turkey in talks to buy missile defense systems from US

Turkey and the United States have reached an understanding, but not full agreement, about stabilising the town of Manbij and other areas of Kurdish-controlled northern Syria, Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said on Wednesday.

Turkey, which on Sunday stormed the northern Syrian town of Afrin after a two-month offensive against the Syrian Kurdish YPG militia, has repeatedly threatened to push its operations further east to Manbij where US&nbsp;troops are stationed.

Expanding Turkey&#39;s military campaign into the much larger Kurdish-held territory further east, which President Tayyip Erdogan has vowed to do, would risk confrontation between the NATO allies who have been at loggerheads over the US&nbsp;policy in Syria and other issues.

Speaking at a news conference in Ankara, Cavusoglu denied media reports that Ankara and Washington had agreed a deal on the fate of Manbij, 100 km (60 miles) east of Afrin.

&quot;We said we reached an understanding, which is mainly that Syria&#39;s Manbij and the east of the Euphrates be stabilised. We said we reached an understanding, not an agreement,&quot; he said.&nbsp;

Ankara was seeking an agreement with Washington over who will secure Manbij after the YPG, which Turkey considers a terrorist organisation, withdraws from the area. Pulling out only from Manbij would not be enough, Cavusoglu said.

&quot;The YPG will withdraw from these areas, like Manbij for example. We will work together for the security of these areas.

&quot;Manbij is, of course, not enough. First, the YPG will leave and the people of Manbij will govern it. The security of the area will be ensured. We will apply the Manbij model to other areas controlled by the YPG as well,&quot; he said.

Turkey considers the YPG to be an extension of the outlawed Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK), which has waged a decades-long insurgency against the state, and has been infuriated by the support Washington has provided the Syrian Kurdish fighters.

The issue caused a crisis between the NATO allies. Outgoing US&nbsp;Secretary of State Rex Tillerson had taken a leading role in recent weeks to resolve the dispute, promising to find a solution for Manbij during a visit to Turkey last month.

However Turkey said US&nbsp;President Donald Trump&#39;s announcement that he was removing Tillerson from office may delay a potential deal between Ankara and Washington. 
&nbsp;

Ankara was seeking an agreement with Washington over who will secure Manbij after the YPG

Turkey and the United States have reached an understanding, but not full agreement, about stabilising the town of Manbij and other areas of Kurdish-controlled northern Syria, Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said on Wednesday. Turkey, which on Sunday stormed the northern Syrian town of Afrin after a two-month offensive against the Syrian Kurdish YPG militia, has repeatedly threatened to push its operations further east to Manbij where US troops are stationed. Expanding Turkey's military campaign into the much larger Kurdish-held territory further east, which President Tayyip Erdogan has vowed to do, would risk confrontation between the NATO allies who have been at loggerheads over the US policy in Syria and other issues. Speaking at a news conference in Ankara, Cavusoglu denied media reports that Ankara and Washington had agreed a deal on the fate of Manbij, 100 km (60 miles) east of Afrin. "We said we reached an understanding, which is mainly that Syria's Manbij and the east of the Euphrates be stabilised. We said we reached an understanding, not an agreement," he said. Ankara was seeking an agreement with Washington over who will secure Manbij after the YPG, which Turkey considers a terrorist organisation, withdraws from the area. Pulling out only from Manbij would not be enough, Cavusoglu said. "The YPG will withdraw from these areas, like Manbij for example. We will work together for the security of these areas. "Manbij is, of course, not enough. First, the YPG will leave and the people of Manbij will govern it. The security of the area will be ensured. We will apply the Manbij model to other areas controlled by the YPG as well," he said. Turkey considers the YPG to be an extension of the outlawed Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK), which has waged a decades-long insurgency against the state, and has been infuriated by the support Washington has provided the Syrian Kurdish fighters. The issue caused a crisis between the NATO allies. Outgoing US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson had taken a leading role in recent weeks to resolve the dispute, promising to find a solution for Manbij during a visit to Turkey last month. However Turkey said US President Donald Trump's announcement that he was removing Tillerson from office may delay a potential deal between Ankara and Washington.

Reached understanding but no deal with US: Turkey on Syria's Manbij

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Monday vowed to expand Turkey&#39;s Syria campaign to other Kurdish-held areas up to the Iraqi border, a day after ousting Kurdish militia from their former enclave of Afrin.

Indicating there was no plan for the Turkish army to call off offensive, Erdogan described the taking of Afrin as merely a &quot;comma&quot; and also warned Turkey could launch a surprise attack on Kurdish rebel strongholds in Iraq.

He said the Turkish campaign in Syria, conducted in tandem with allied Syrian forces, could now extend up to Qamishli, the most easterly Syrian town held by the Kurdish People&#39;s Protection Units (YPG) before the Iraqi border.

&quot;Now we will continue this process until we entirely eliminate this corridor, including in Manbij, Ayn al-Arab, Tel-Abyad, Ras al-Ayn and Qamishli,&quot; Erdogan said in a speech in Ankara.

Manbij, the next main YPG-held town east of Afrin is a particular flashpoint as there is a US military presence there, raising the risk of confrontation between the NATO allies.

Ayn al-Arab is the border town known as Kobane in Kurdish, of symbolic importance as it was the epicentre of a struggle with Islamic State (IS) jihadists.The YPG is seen by the United States as a key player in the fight against Islamic State jihadists. But Turkey brands it a terrorist group.

Turkey sees the YPG as a Syrian offshoot of the outlawed Kurdistan Workers&#39;&nbsp;Party (PKK), which has waged a bloody insurgency against the Turkish state since 1984.

Most of Afrin&#39;s 350,000 residents have fled since Turkey and allied Syrian rebels launched an air and ground offensive on January 20 to root out the YPG.

The capture of the city is seen a major step forwards for Turkey as it seeks to bolster its control along the border in northern Syria.

Erdogan described Afrin&#39;s capture after almost two months as a &quot;major stage&quot; of the operation, codenamed Olive Branch. But he said more would come.

&quot;We marked a comma. God willing a full stop will come next.&quot;&nbsp;

But he insisted that Turkey &quot;has no intention of being occupiers&quot; in Syria and only wanted to remove the threat posed by the &quot;terrorists.&quot;

He also evoked a possible operation against PKK camps in Iraq&#39;s Sinjar region, saying this could come any time.

Erdogan said he had told the Iraqi authorities in Baghdad to deal with PKK camps there, warning Sinjar risked becoming one of the group&#39;s strongholds, like the Qandil mountain area.&nbsp;

&quot;If (Baghdad) cannot, we may turn up in Sinjar suddenly one night and clean up the PKK there.&quot;

Most of Afrin's 350,000 residents have fled since Turkey and allied Syrian rebels launched an air and ground offensive on January 20 to root out the YPG

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Monday vowed to expand Turkey's Syria campaign to other Kurdish-held areas up to the Iraqi border, a day after ousting Kurdish militia from their former enclave of Afrin. Indicating there was no plan for the Turkish army to call off offensive, Erdogan described the taking of Afrin as merely a "comma" and also warned Turkey could launch a surprise attack on Kurdish rebel strongholds in Iraq. He said the Turkish campaign in Syria, conducted in tandem with allied Syrian forces, could now extend up to Qamishli, the most easterly Syrian town held by the Kurdish People's Protection Units (YPG) before the Iraqi border. "Now we will continue this process until we entirely eliminate this corridor, including in Manbij, Ayn al-Arab, Tel-Abyad, Ras al-Ayn and Qamishli," Erdogan said in a speech in Ankara. Manbij, the next main YPG-held town east of Afrin is a particular flashpoint as there is a US military presence there, raising the risk of confrontation between the NATO allies. Ayn al-Arab is the border town known as Kobane in Kurdish, of symbolic importance as it was the epicentre of a struggle with Islamic State (IS) jihadists.The YPG is seen by the United States as a key player in the fight against Islamic State jihadists. But Turkey brands it a terrorist group. Turkey sees the YPG as a Syrian offshoot of the outlawed Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK), which has waged a bloody insurgency against the Turkish state since 1984. Most of Afrin's 350,000 residents have fled since Turkey and allied Syrian rebels launched an air and ground offensive on January 20 to root out the YPG. The capture of the city is seen a major step forwards for Turkey as it seeks to bolster its control along the border in northern Syria. Erdogan described Afrin's capture after almost two months as a "major stage" of the operation, codenamed Olive Branch. But he said more would come. "We marked a comma. God willing a full stop will come next." But he insisted that Turkey "has no intention of being occupiers" in Syria and only wanted to remove the threat posed by the "terrorists." He also evoked a possible operation against PKK camps in Iraq's Sinjar region, saying this could come any time. Erdogan said he had told the Iraqi authorities in Baghdad to deal with PKK camps there, warning Sinjar risked becoming one of the group's strongholds, like the Qandil mountain area. "If (Baghdad) cannot, we may turn up in Sinjar suddenly one night and clean up the PKK there."

Turkey 'to expand Syria op' to other Kurdish-held towns

Turkey&#39;s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced that Turkish troops and the Syrian rebel fighter allies have seized control of the town center of Afrin from Kurdish YPG fighters.

A spokesman for the rebel fighters said they entered Afrin before dawn from three fronts, meeting no resistance.

&ldquo;Afrin city centre is under control as of 8:30 this morning,&rdquo; Erdogan told a rally marking the 103rd anniversary of the World War One Gallipoli campaign. Turkish and Free Syrian Army flags had been raised in Afrin, Erdogan said.

&ldquo;Most of the terrorists have already fled with tails between their legs. Our special forces and members of the Free Syrian Army are cleaning the remains and the traps they left behind,&rdquo; Erdogan said. &ldquo;In the centre of Afrin, symbols of trust and stability are waving instead of rags of terrorists.&rdquo;

But a war monitor said clashes continued in parts of Afrin, the main town of the Afrin region which has been under Kurdish control for years. Afrin is one of three Kurdish cantons in northern Syria on the border with Turkey.

Turkey launched its military offensive against US-backed Kurdish YPG militia in Afrin on January 20, supported by FSA rebel factions. Further, it says it will extend the offensive to other Kurdish regions where US forces are stationed alongside the YPG, an ally against Islamic State.

The fighting in a once stable pocket of northwest Syria has opened a new front in the country&rsquo;s multi-sided civil war, highlighting the ever greater role of foreign powers in the seven-year-old conflict.

More than 150,000 people have been displaced in the last few days from Afrin town, a senior Kurdish official and a monitoring group said Saturday.

A spokesman for the rebel fighters said they entered Afrin before dawn from three fronts, meeting no resistance

Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced that Turkish troops and the Syrian rebel fighter allies have seized control of the town center of Afrin from Kurdish YPG fighters. A spokesman for the rebel fighters said they entered Afrin before dawn from three fronts, meeting no resistance. “Afrin city centre is under control as of 8:30 this morning,” Erdogan told a rally marking the 103rd anniversary of the World War One Gallipoli campaign. Turkish and Free Syrian Army flags had been raised in Afrin, Erdogan said. “Most of the terrorists have already fled with tails between their legs. Our special forces and members of the Free Syrian Army are cleaning the remains and the traps they left behind,” Erdogan said. “In the centre of Afrin, symbols of trust and stability are waving instead of rags of terrorists.” But a war monitor said clashes continued in parts of Afrin, the main town of the Afrin region which has been under Kurdish control for years. Afrin is one of three Kurdish cantons in northern Syria on the border with Turkey. Turkey launched its military offensive against US-backed Kurdish YPG militia in Afrin on January 20, supported by FSA rebel factions. Further, it says it will extend the offensive to other Kurdish regions where US forces are stationed alongside the YPG, an ally against Islamic State. The fighting in a once stable pocket of northwest Syria has opened a new front in the country’s multi-sided civil war, highlighting the ever greater role of foreign powers in the seven-year-old conflict. More than 150,000 people have been displaced in the last few days from Afrin town, a senior Kurdish official and a monitoring group said Saturday.

Syrian rebel fighters enter Afrin town, Kurdish forces pull out

Turkish-backed Syrian rebels have taken &quot;total&quot; control of the centre of Afrin, a Kurdish-majority city in northern Syria, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said on Sunday.

&quot;Units of the Free Syrian Army, which are backed by Turkish armed forces, took control of the centre of Afrin this morning at 8:30 am (0530 GMT),&quot; Erdogan said, adding that de-mining operations were under-way.

Taking Afrin has been the main objective of Turkey&#39;s operation Olive Branch, a deadly ground and air offensive launched on January 20 with the aim of ousting the People&#39;s Protection Units (YPG), a Kurdish militia group.

Erdogan said a &quot;large number&quot; of Kurdish fighters had &quot;fled with their tails between their legs&quot;.

He added Turkish special forces had deployed in the city.

News of Afrin&#39;s capture was also confirmed by the Turkish military, which released a statement saying the city centre was &quot;under control&quot;.&nbsp;

&quot;Search operations to locate mines and other explosives are under way,&quot; it said.&nbsp;

On Twitter, the military posted a video of a soldier putting a Turkish flag on a balcony.

&quot;Now the Turkish flag will fly over there! The flag of the Free Syrian Army will fly over there!&quot; said Erdogan who was speaking at a ceremony marking the battle to open the Dardanelles during World War I.&nbsp;

As the Turkish operation intensified, more than 200,000 civilians fled the Kurdish-majority city in less than three days and dozens have been killed in the area, according to the Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights.

The monitor said Sunday that more than 1,500 Kurdish fighters have been killed in the two-month assault by Turkish forces and allied Syrian rebels on Afrin.

Most died in air strikes and artillery fire, the group said adding that more than 400 pro-Ankara rebels had been killed since January 20

Ankara sees the YPG as a Syrian offshoot of the outlawed Kurdistan Workers&#39;&nbsp;Party (PKK), which has been waging an insurgency inside Turkey since 1984.&nbsp;

But Washington has provided weapons to the YPG, which it sees as a key ally in the fight against jihadists in Syria and Turkey, with Ankara&#39;s military operation hiking tensions between the two NATO allies.&nbsp;

According to figures released by the Turkish army, 46 Turkish soldiers have been killed since the start of the Afrin offensive.&nbsp;

Afrin is one of several fronts in the Syrian war which has left 350,00 people dead and displaced millions of people since 2011.

Erdogan said a 'large number' of Kurdish fighters had 'fled with their tails between their legs'

Turkish-backed Syrian rebels have taken "total" control of the centre of Afrin, a Kurdish-majority city in northern Syria, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said on Sunday. "Units of the Free Syrian Army, which are backed by Turkish armed forces, took control of the centre of Afrin this morning at 8:30 am (0530 GMT)," Erdogan said, adding that de-mining operations were under-way. Taking Afrin has been the main objective of Turkey's operation Olive Branch, a deadly ground and air offensive launched on January 20 with the aim of ousting the People's Protection Units (YPG), a Kurdish militia group. Erdogan said a "large number" of Kurdish fighters had "fled with their tails between their legs". He added Turkish special forces had deployed in the city. News of Afrin's capture was also confirmed by the Turkish military, which released a statement saying the city centre was "under control". "Search operations to locate mines and other explosives are under way," it said. On Twitter, the military posted a video of a soldier putting a Turkish flag on a balcony. "Now the Turkish flag will fly over there! The flag of the Free Syrian Army will fly over there!" said Erdogan who was speaking at a ceremony marking the battle to open the Dardanelles during World War I. As the Turkish operation intensified, more than 200,000 civilians fled the Kurdish-majority city in less than three days and dozens have been killed in the area, according to the Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. The monitor said Sunday that more than 1,500 Kurdish fighters have been killed in the two-month assault by Turkish forces and allied Syrian rebels on Afrin. Most died in air strikes and artillery fire, the group said adding that more than 400 pro-Ankara rebels had been killed since January 20 Ankara sees the YPG as a Syrian offshoot of the outlawed Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK), which has been waging an insurgency inside Turkey since 1984. But Washington has provided weapons to the YPG, which it sees as a key ally in the fight against jihadists in Syria and Turkey, with Ankara's military operation hiking tensions between the two NATO allies. According to figures released by the Turkish army, 46 Turkish soldiers have been killed since the start of the Afrin offensive. Afrin is one of several fronts in the Syrian war which has left 350,00 people dead and displaced millions of people since 2011.

Turkey's Erdogan says Afrin city centre under 'total' control

Turkey&#39;s flag was flying in Afrin on Sunday after its troops and Ankara-backed rebels chased out Kurdish militia forces to seize control of the Syrian city.

In a major victory for Ankara&#39;s two-month operation against the Kurdish People&#39;s Protection Units (YPG) in northern Syria, Turkish-led forces pushed into Afrin apparently unopposed, taking up positions across the city.

The advance came as Syria&#39;s civil war entered its eighth year this week with heavy fighting on two fronts -- around Afrin and in the rebel enclave of Eastern Ghouta near Damascus.

Hundreds have been killed and thousands forced from their homes by the ferocious assault in Ghouta, where President Bashar al-Assad on Sunday visited troops battling to retake the last rebel enclave close to the capital.

In Afrin, AFP correspondents saw Turkish forces and their Syrian allies in all neighbourhoods of the city after they made a lightning advance inside on Sunday. 
Rebels fanned out across the city, giving victory signs and taking pictures with Turkish tanks parked outside official buildings.&nbsp;

The flags of Turkey and Syrian rebel groups were raised in the city and a statue of Kurdish hero Kawa, a symbol of resistance against oppressors, was torn down.

Civilians were seen fleeing the city and plumes of smoke rose into the sky as mines exploded.Around 250,000 civilians had left in recent days after pro-Ankara fighters took the surrounding region and all but encircled the city, fleeing southwards to territory still held by the YPG or controlled by the Syrian regime.

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced that Turkish-backed fighters had taken control of the city centre and said a &quot;large number&quot; of Kurdish fighters had &quot;fled with their tails between their legs&quot;.

The Turkish leader has said the operation could move on to other Kurdish-controlled areas of northern Syria.

&quot;Our work is not finished.... but terrorism is finished in Afrin,&quot; Turkish government spokesman Bekir Bozdag said.&nbsp;

Residents said it appeared that YPG units had withdrawn from the city without a fight.&nbsp;

But Kurdish authorities vowed to retake Afrin, one of three semi-autonomous Kurdish &quot;cantons&quot; in northern Syria.&nbsp;

&quot;Resistance... will continue until every inch of Afrin is liberated,&quot; authorities representing the Afrin canton said in a statement.

&quot;In all of Afrin&#39;s sectors, our forces will become a permanent nightmare&quot; for pro-Ankara fighters, the statement said, promising &quot;a switch from direct confrontation to hit-and-run attacks.&quot;&nbsp;

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a Britain-based war monitor, says more than 280 civilians have been killed since the campaign began on January 20.&nbsp; Ankara has denied the reports and said it takes the &quot;utmost care&quot; to avoid civilian casualties.

The Observatory said Sunday that more than 1,500 Kurdish fighters had been killed since the start of the offensive, most of them in air strikes and artillery fire.More than 400 pro-Ankara rebels have also been killed, it said. The Turkish military says 46 Turkish soldiers have died.

Turkey sees the YPG as a &quot;terrorist&quot; offshoot of the outlawed Kurdistan Workers&#39;&nbsp;Party (PKK), which has waged a decades-long insurgency against the Turkish state.

But the Kurdish militia has also formed the backbone of a US-backed alliance that successfully expelled the Islamic State jihadist group from large parts of Syria.

On another front near Damascus, thousands of civilians continued to stream out of Eastern Ghouta for a fourth day as the regime&#39;s Russian-backed air and ground assault appeared to have eased up.&nbsp;

Regime fighters have retaken more than 80 percent of the former rebel bastion since the offensive was launched on February 18, the Observatory says, slicing what remains into three pockets each held by different rebel groups.

More than 1,400 civilians have been killed in the offensive and at least 65,000 civilians are reported to have fled the area in recent days.

Observatory head Rami Abdel Rahman said there had not been any air strikes on Sunday and only sporadic mortar fire into a southern pocket of the enclave held by the Faylaq al-Rahman rebel group.

&quot;The area is awaiting the announcement of a deal between Faylaq al-Rahman and Russia on an evacuation of rebels to northern Syria,&quot; Abdel Rahman told AFP. Assad met with soldiers in Eastern Ghouta on Sunday, the presidency said, in the leader&#39;s first trip to the region in years.

Syria state television broadcast photos of the president dressed in a shirt and jacket surrounded by soldiers, some perched on a tank behind him, in an unspecified part of Eastern Ghouta.

Syria&#39;s conflict broke out in 2011 with protests against Assad.

He has maintained his grip on power despite global calls to step down and outrage at the brutal offensives he has waged to retake towns and cities from rebel fighters.

Syria's conflict broke out in 2011 with protests against Assad

Turkey's flag was flying in Afrin on Sunday after its troops and Ankara-backed rebels chased out Kurdish militia forces to seize control of the Syrian city. In a major victory for Ankara's two-month operation against the Kurdish People's Protection Units (YPG) in northern Syria, Turkish-led forces pushed into Afrin apparently unopposed, taking up positions across the city. The advance came as Syria's civil war entered its eighth year this week with heavy fighting on two fronts -- around Afrin and in the rebel enclave of Eastern Ghouta near Damascus. Hundreds have been killed and thousands forced from their homes by the ferocious assault in Ghouta, where President Bashar al-Assad on Sunday visited troops battling to retake the last rebel enclave close to the capital. In Afrin, AFP correspondents saw Turkish forces and their Syrian allies in all neighbourhoods of the city after they made a lightning advance inside on Sunday. Rebels fanned out across the city, giving victory signs and taking pictures with Turkish tanks parked outside official buildings. The flags of Turkey and Syrian rebel groups were raised in the city and a statue of Kurdish hero Kawa, a symbol of resistance against oppressors, was torn down. Civilians were seen fleeing the city and plumes of smoke rose into the sky as mines exploded.Around 250,000 civilians had left in recent days after pro-Ankara fighters took the surrounding region and all but encircled the city, fleeing southwards to territory still held by the YPG or controlled by the Syrian regime. President Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced that Turkish-backed fighters had taken control of the city centre and said a "large number" of Kurdish fighters had "fled with their tails between their legs". The Turkish leader has said the operation could move on to other Kurdish-controlled areas of northern Syria. "Our work is not finished.... but terrorism is finished in Afrin," Turkish government spokesman Bekir Bozdag said. Residents said it appeared that YPG units had withdrawn from the city without a fight. But Kurdish authorities vowed to retake Afrin, one of three semi-autonomous Kurdish "cantons" in northern Syria. "Resistance... will continue until every inch of Afrin is liberated," authorities representing the Afrin canton said in a statement. "In all of Afrin's sectors, our forces will become a permanent nightmare" for pro-Ankara fighters, the statement said, promising "a switch from direct confrontation to hit-and-run attacks." The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a Britain-based war monitor, says more than 280 civilians have been killed since the campaign began on January 20. Ankara has denied the reports and said it takes the "utmost care" to avoid civilian casualties. The Observatory said Sunday that more than 1,500 Kurdish fighters had been killed since the start of the offensive, most of them in air strikes and artillery fire.More than 400 pro-Ankara rebels have also been killed, it said. The Turkish military says 46 Turkish soldiers have died. Turkey sees the YPG as a "terrorist" offshoot of the outlawed Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK), which has waged a decades-long insurgency against the Turkish state. But the Kurdish militia has also formed the backbone of a US-backed alliance that successfully expelled the Islamic State jihadist group from large parts of Syria. On another front near Damascus, thousands of civilians continued to stream out of Eastern Ghouta for a fourth day as the regime's Russian-backed air and ground assault appeared to have eased up. Regime fighters have retaken more than 80 percent of the former rebel bastion since the offensive was launched on February 18, the Observatory says, slicing what remains into three pockets each held by different rebel groups. More than 1,400 civilians have been killed in the offensive and at least 65,000 civilians are reported to have fled the area in recent days. Observatory head Rami Abdel Rahman said there had not been any air strikes on Sunday and only sporadic mortar fire into a southern pocket of the enclave held by the Faylaq al-Rahman rebel group. "The area is awaiting the announcement of a deal between Faylaq al-Rahman and Russia on an evacuation of rebels to northern Syria," Abdel Rahman told AFP. Assad met with soldiers in Eastern Ghouta on Sunday, the presidency said, in the leader's first trip to the region in years. Syria state television broadcast photos of the president dressed in a shirt and jacket surrounded by soldiers, some perched on a tank behind him, in an unspecified part of Eastern Ghouta. Syria's conflict broke out in 2011 with protests against Assad. He has maintained his grip on power despite global calls to step down and outrage at the brutal offensives he has waged to retake towns and cities from rebel fighters.

Turkish-led forces oust Kurds from Syria's Afrin

Thousands of civilians could be seen leaving Syria&#39;s Eastern Ghouta at the Hammouriyah crossing point on Saturday (March 17) in footage broadcast by Syrian state television.

Air strikes killed scores of people in eastern Ghouta, a war monitor said, and weary residents streamed out on foot for a second day, as Russian-backed government forces pressed their campaign to capture the last big rebel bastion near Damascus.

On another front, Turkish and allied rebel forces struck the northern Kurdish-held town of Afrin, killing more than 40 people including children,&nbsp;Syrian Kurdish forces and a monitor said.

Young children were carried on suitcases and bicycles, while the elderly were offered assistance along the dusty road.

More than 7,000 people left Syria&#39;s Eastern Ghouta on Saturday morning, the TASS news agency reported, citing the Centre for Reconciliation in Syria, a body run by Russia&#39;s defence ministry.&nbsp;

The UK-based war monitoring group said a new wave of 10,000 people had left the besieged insurgent pocket to army positions in Ghouta, where the government has waged a fierce month-long offensive.

Backed by Russia and Iran, government forces have thrust deep into eastern Ghouta on the capital&#39;s outskirts, splintering the rebel enclave into three separate zones. The United Nations believes up to 400,000 people have been trapped in the Ghouta satellite towns and farmland, short of food and medicine.

The&nbsp;Syrian war entered its eighth year this week having killed half a million people and driven more than 11 million from their homes, including nearly 6 million who have fled abroad in one of the worst refugee crises of modern times.

The government launched its offensive on eastern Ghouta a month ago, and Turkey began its cross-border assault in Afrin in January. In both cases, hundreds of thousands of civilians have been trapped inside encircled pockets on the battlefield.

An estimated 12,000-16,000 people left Ghouta in recent days, while fighting in the Afrin region has reportedly displaced more than 48,000, said Linda Tom, a U.N. humanitarian spokeswoman in&nbsp;Syria.

Young children were carried on suitcases and bicycles, while the elderly were offered assistance along the dusty road

Thousands of civilians could be seen leaving Syria's Eastern Ghouta at the Hammouriyah crossing point on Saturday (March 17) in footage broadcast by Syrian state television. Air strikes killed scores of people in eastern Ghouta, a war monitor said, and weary residents streamed out on foot for a second day, as Russian-backed government forces pressed their campaign to capture the last big rebel bastion near Damascus. On another front, Turkish and allied rebel forces struck the northern Kurdish-held town of Afrin, killing more than 40 people including children, Syrian Kurdish forces and a monitor said. Young children were carried on suitcases and bicycles, while the elderly were offered assistance along the dusty road. More than 7,000 people left Syria's Eastern Ghouta on Saturday morning, the TASS news agency reported, citing the Centre for Reconciliation in Syria, a body run by Russia's defence ministry. The UK-based war monitoring group said a new wave of 10,000 people had left the besieged insurgent pocket to army positions in Ghouta, where the government has waged a fierce month-long offensive. Backed by Russia and Iran, government forces have thrust deep into eastern Ghouta on the capital's outskirts, splintering the rebel enclave into three separate zones. The United Nations believes up to 400,000 people have been trapped in the Ghouta satellite towns and farmland, short of food and medicine. The Syrian war entered its eighth year this week having killed half a million people and driven more than 11 million from their homes, including nearly 6 million who have fled abroad in one of the worst refugee crises of modern times. The government launched its offensive on eastern Ghouta a month ago, and Turkey began its cross-border assault in Afrin in January. In both cases, hundreds of thousands of civilians have been trapped inside encircled pockets on the battlefield. An estimated 12,000-16,000 people left Ghouta in recent days, while fighting in the Afrin region has reportedly displaced more than 48,000, said Linda Tom, a U.N. humanitarian spokeswoman in Syria.

Civilians stream out of Ghouta as crisis intensifies

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