Russian President Vladimir Putin and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan discussed escalating violence in Syria, focusing on the need to curb “terrorist aggression.”
Putin stressed the urgency of stopping radical group attacks on Syria’s state, while Erdoğan reaffirmed Turkey’s commitment to Syria’s territorial integrity and called for a diplomatic solution involving the Syrian government.
Erdoğan also emphasized Turkey’s fight against the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) and warned of groups exploiting the region’s instability. Putin highlighted the need to support Syria’s legitimate authorities and urged closer cooperation through bilateral efforts and the Astana process, which includes Iran. Both leaders agreed to maintain communication to ease tensions.
The talks come amid renewed fighting in northwest Syria, where rebels have launched a major offensive in Aleppo, killing over 60 people and marking their first territorial gains in years. Syrian President Bashar al-Assad vowed to launch a counteroffensive, while Russia conducted airstrikes in Aleppo and Idlib, targeting jihadist rebels.
International involvement has grown, with U.S. strikes reportedly hitting pro-government forces. Meanwhile, Russia faces setbacks, including troop losses and the dismissal of its Syrian commander. Despite the turmoil, Syrian and Russian forces continue their campaign to regain control of the region.
