Turkey's foreign policy appears to be undergoing a significant recalibration, with recent developments indicating a shift in its approach to both Syria and Ukraine. From calling for the removal of sanctions against the Syrian regime to signaling a readiness to deploy troops to Ukraine, Turkey's actions are drawing international attention.
Turkey Calls for Lifting Sanctions on Syria
During a consultative meeting in Ankara with British officials, Turkey emphasized the need to lift all Western sanctions imposed on Syria. This call represents a notable departure from previous stances and could potentially pave the way for increased engagement with the Syrian government. Officials from both the Turkish and British Ministries of Foreign Affairs participated in the discussions.
The rationale behind this shift remains unclear, but analysts suggest it could be driven by a desire to stabilize the region and address humanitarian concerns. "Lifting sanctions could potentially alleviate some of the suffering of the Syrian people," noted one expert on Middle Eastern affairs. Whether this call will be heeded by Western powers remains to be seen.
Potential Troop Deployment to Ukraine
In a separate development, a source within the Turkish defence ministry has indicated that Turkey is prepared to send troops to Ukraine if needed. This announcement, while still developing, suggests a willingness to play a more active role in the ongoing conflict. The specific circumstances under which Turkey would deploy troops remain undefined.
This comes amidst broader discussions about Western involvement in Ukraine. 
France, for example, has suggested that Western troops in Ukraine are possible without crossing a "belligerence threshold." Turkey's potential involvement would add another layer of complexity to the already intricate geopolitical landscape.
Syria's Chemical Weapon Dismantlement
Meanwhile, in The Hague, the new Syrian leadership has committed to destroying the chemical weapons stockpile inherited from the Al-Assad regime. Experts from the OPCW are expected to travel to Syria soon to prepare for the dismantlement of these chemical agents, which the previous authorities had retained despite joining the multilateral control organization in October 2013. This initiative signals a potential turning point in Syria's compliance with international norms.
These developments come as the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) recently returned the body of Kazem Farhan Al-SaHan to his relatives in Jadeed Bakara, east of Deir ez-Zor, following his death near Balad Bridge. The SDF's actions highlight the ongoing security challenges and complex dynamics within Syria.
Turkey's evolving stance on Syria and Ukraine suggests a more assertive foreign policy, driven by a combination of regional security concerns, humanitarian considerations, and a desire to play a more prominent role on the global stage. The implications of these shifts remain to be seen, but they undoubtedly warrant close observation.