Illegitimate Foreign Forces Must Leave Syria: Putin
TEHRAN (Tasnim) – Syria must be freed from “illegitimate” foreign troops, Russian President Vladimir Putin said, according to Russian news agencies.
“Everyone who is illegitimately on the territory of any state, in this case Syria, must leave this territory. This applies to all states,” Putin told RT, excerpts from which were quoted by the Russian agencies.
Putin also said Russian forces in Syria were also ready to leave the country as soon as the legitimate Syrian government tells Moscow it no longer needs its help.
The remarks came amid an ongoing Turkish-led military incursion into northern Syria.
Anadolu news agency said Saturday the Turkish forces had arrived at the M-4 highway that connects the Syrian towns of Manbij and Qamishli. The road is about 30 kilometers (19 miles) south of the Turkish border.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said Friday Turkey won't stop until the Kurdish fighters withdraw below a 32 kilometer (20 miles) deep line.
