Türkiye and Russia Resume Joint Ground Patrols in Operation Peace Spring Zone

Ankara, The Gulf Observer: The Turkish National Defence Ministry announced the resumption of joint ground patrols between Türkiye and Russia, which had been suspended last October due to the deteriorating security situation in the region. The joint patrols recommenced on Thursday, marking a significant step in reinforcing stability in the Operation Peace Spring zone.

According to the ministry’s statement released on Friday, the renewed patrol activities involved four vehicles—two Pars and two Kirpi-2—and 24 personnel. These operations took place in the eastern part of the Peace Spring Operation area, aligning with the terms of the Sochi agreement signed between Ankara and Moscow on 22 October 2019.

The ministry highlighted that the joint patrols are conducted in both the western and eastern parts of the Operation Peace Spring zone, with the primary objectives being the securing of Türkiye’s borders, the protection of civilians in the region, and the establishment of long-term stability in northern Syria.

Notably, the patrols also focus on identifying control points, headquarters, and military structures associated with the PKK/YPG-SDF terrorist organization, underscoring the collaborative efforts between Türkiye and Russia in combating terrorism. The Turkish National Defence Ministry reiterated that, as per agreements with the United States and Russia, the PKK “must exit the region.”

The resumption of joint ground patrols follows a history of successful cooperation between the two countries, with the first patrol having taken place on 1 November 2019. Prior to the suspension on 5 October 2023, a total of 344 joint ground patrols had been conducted, reflecting the enduring commitment of both Türkiye and Russia to maintaining security and stability in the region.