A high-level military delegation from Turkey’s Ministry of Defense recently met with officials from Syria’s newly established Ministry of Defense. This meeting marks a significant step in the evolving relationship between the two nations following recent political changes in Damascus.

In December 2024, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan visited Damascus and met with Syria’s new leadership. During the visit, he stressed that Kurdish militants, particularly the YPG militia, should have no place in Syria’s future and called for their disbandment. He also reiterated Turkey’s commitment to Syria’s territorial integrity and sovereignty.

By January 2025, negotiations involving Turkey, Syria, the United States, and the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) intensified. Discussions centered on the future of Kurdish forces in northeastern Syria, with a potential agreement involving the integration of some fighters into Syria’s new defense structure, while others might be relocated out of the region.

These diplomatic and military engagements highlight shifting regional dynamics as key players redefine alliances and address longstanding security concerns.