Sweden’s Foreign Minister Ann Linde answered the deputies’ questions on the Turkish state’s military operation against northern Syria that is participated by mercenary groups with ISIS and al-Nusra background.

 

Linde refuted the claims that the European Union and Sweden support the mercenaries that partake in Turkey’s military campaign to invade North and East Syria.

 

Recalling that the Swedish government has persistently condemned the attacks of the Turkish state, Linde said; “This offensive is against international law, it serves ISIS and leads to suffering for not only Kurds but also other minorities; Assyrians, Syriacs and Yazidis. This condemnation also involves the armed groups, including the Free Syrian Army, that act under the Turkish state control.”

 

The Minister pointed out the need for peace and stability in Syria rather than renewed conflicts after 8 years of war in the country, adding; “The only way leading to peace is a political solution that must be pursuant to United Nations Security Council Resolution 2254 and led by the United Nations.”

 

Linde recalled their warning, before the launch of Turkey’s offensive, that ISIS members could flee from the prisons and camps where they are held in northern Syria. She added; “For this reason, we are in close contact with Kurdish officials and the organizations operating in the camps.”