Turkey asks Allies for Ground Troop Support in Syria

By Cheri Cheng - 16 Feb '16 12:41PM

Turkey has asked its allies for support in a joint ground operation in Syria as pro-government forces, backed by Russia airstrikes, continue to advance near the Turkish border.

According to a Turkish official, who spoke on the condition of anonymity with reporters in Istanbul, it would be "impossible to stop the fighting in Syria" if there is no ground operation.

"We want a ground operation. If there is a consensus, Turkey will take part. Without a ground operation it is impossible to stop this war," the official said reported by Reuters. "Turkey is not going to have a unilateral ground operation ... We are discussing this with allies."

Over the past few weeks, government forces with the support of its allies have been on the offensive to take back rebel-controlled areas in the city of Aleppo and other regions in northern Syria. The advances have brought the forces within 15 miles of Turkey, increasing tensions between Turkey and Russia.

Turkey has accused Russia of an "obvious war crime" for providing airstrikes that have killed dozens of civilians. Turkey made its comment after the recent attacks in Azaz and the Idlib province on two hospitals and a school. Russia has denied allegations that they were responsible for the missiles that hit a hospital.

"We categorically do not accept such statements, the more so as every time those making these statements are unable to prove their unfounded accusations in any way," President Vladimir Putin's spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters.

"Our relations (with Turkey) are in a deep crisis. Russia regrets this. We are not the initiators of this."

Turkey has also been feeling pressure from Kurdish fighters, who the country sees as hostile insurgents. To prevent the fighters from advancing closer to the border, Turkey has been carrying out cross-border airstrikes. The country has also warned the Kurdish YPG militia of a "harsh response" if they do not retreat, VOA News reported.

Turkey believes the militia is getting support from Moscow.