Germany expected consultation before US Syria pullout

By Erbil Basay

BERLIN (AA) - The German government said Friday that it would be appreciated if the U.S. negotiated with them before deciding to withdraw troops from Syria.

Ulrike Demmer, the government’s deputy spokeswoman, told a news conference in Berlin that they were not consulted before the U.S. decision to pullout from Syria, even though they are allies in fight against Daesh terror group.

She added that there was much more to be done for a final victory over Daesh.

“The U.S. announcement that it will withdraw its troops from Syria can change the dynamics in the eight-year conflict,” Demmer said, adding that all parties needed to stay in a dialogue in the political process.

U.S. President Donald Trump on Wednesday ordered all of the U.S. forces in Syria to withdraw from the country, saying Daesh's defeat was his sole reason for being in the civil war-torn country.

The U.S. began its air campaign in Syria in 2014, deploying troops to the country to assist in the anti-Daesh fight alongside local partners the year after.

Reports have suggested U.S. forces will leave within 60 to 100 days.

The withdrawal comes on the eve of a possible Turkish military operation in the northeastern Syria against the YPG/PKK terrorist group.

Since 2016, Ankara has carried out two similar military operations in the northern Syria.