Ankara: Trkiye on Friday dismissed the SDF/YPG's attempts to delay their integration into the Syrian army, stating there is no alternative to integration. This follows a March 10 agreement between Syria's President Ahmad Al-Sharaa and the SDF, which has yet to be implemented by the group.

According to Anadolu Agency, the Turkish National Defense Ministry spokesperson emphasized that the SDF's ongoing activities, rather than integrating into the Syrian army as agreed, undermine efforts to establish stability in Syria. Rear Adm. Zeki Akturk highlighted that some nations' actions encourage the SDF not to disarm, reiterating Ankara's expectation that SDF members join the Syrian army individually.

Akturk further stated that the SDF's attempts to delay are ineffective and reiterated that integration is the only viable outcome. The agreement was intended to strengthen Syrian territorial unity and prevent division. Despite this, the SDF has continued its attacks on Syrian army forces in Aleppo and Raqqa.

Akturk also pointed out that the Turkish Army's routine activities, such as troop rotations in Syria, are not the primary concern. Instead, attention should focus on the SDF's situation and the Syrian army's activities.

In a separate statement, Akturk addressed Trkiye's ongoing discussions with the U.S. regarding the procurement of F-35s, following remarks by U.S. Ambassador to Trkiye and Special Envoy for Syria Tom Barrack. He confirmed that Trkiye is continuing its efforts to enhance its air defense capabilities and that diplomatic talks with the U.S. are ongoing to resolve issues related to the F-35 program.

Akturk also mentioned Trkiye's interim plan to acquire Eurofighter Typhoon aircraft from Qatar and Oman as a stopgap measure until new aircraft from the UK are delivered. This acquisition will proceed following contractual agreements and necessary modernizations.