Turkey calls EP's anti-Afrin operation move 'one-sided'

By Meltem Bulur

ANKARA (AA) - Turkey on Friday criticized a European Parliament motion urging Turkey to stop its ongoing Afrin operation as "one-sided."

In a written statement, the Foreign Ministry said that with the motion, the European Parliament once again showed its one-sided views.

The statement said that it is not possible for Turkey to accept the decision of the EP, which the ministry said is known for its tolerance for terrorist groups.

"As it has up to now, Turkey will continue to fight against all kinds of terrorist groups with determination," the statement said.

The ministry stressed that Operation Olive Branch in Afrin is being carried out under the framework of Turkey's rights based on international law, UN Security Council resolutions, its self-defense rights under the UN charter, and respect for Syria's territorial integrity.

"These accusations directed against Turkey -- which is taking all kinds of measures during the operation to avoid harming civilians in the area -- are unfair and baseless," the statement added.

On Thursday, the European Parliament drafted a motion calling on Turkey to withdraw its troops from Syria's Afrin region.

On Jan. 20, Turkey launched Operation Olive Branch to clear YPG/PKK-Daesh terrorists from Afrin.

According to the Turkish General Staff, the operation aims to establish security and stability along Turkey’s borders and the region as well as to protect Syrians from terrorist oppression and cruelty.

The military also said only terror targets are being destroyed and that the "utmost care" is being taken to avoid harming civilians.