Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan stated on Saturday that he anticipates the administration of US President-elect Donald Trump will review its relationship with the PKK terror group.

“I think the Trump administration will review its relationship with the PKK (terror group). Because we convey to them at every opportunity how serious we are about this issue,” Fidan said during a press briefing in Ankara.

Fidan emphasized Türkiye’s concerns about the US cooperation with the YPG/PKK in Syria, reiterating that it remains a key issue in Türkiye-US relations. He noted: “As long as the US continues its cooperation with the YPG/PKK (terror group) in Syria, the strategic issue with Türkiye will obviously persist.”

Referring to past US attempts to withdraw from Syria during Trump’s first term, Fidan highlighted that Türkiye is prepared to address regional security challenges through both diplomatic and on-ground measures.

Regarding Iraq’s Kirkuk province, Fidan asserted Türkiye’s opposition to the PKK’s influence in the region. “We do not want to see a governorship in Kirkuk that will be under the influence of the PKK (terror group),” he said, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the region’s original demographic structure.

Turning to the Cyprus issue, Fidan criticized the EU for its approach and reiterated Ankara’s preference for pursuing a solution through the United Nations. “We seek a solution that reflects the current practical realities on the island,” he added.

On global conflicts, Fidan commented on Russia’s nuclear doctrine and the risks associated with the war in Ukraine, stating that Türkiye has consistently warned about escalating global polarization. He also addressed the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, urging for international efforts to deliver aid to the blockaded region.