Turkey responds to YPG/PKK attacks in northern Syria

Turkish security forces have given the necessary response to harassment and attacks carried out by YPG/PKK terrorists, the country’s Defense Ministry said on Saturday.

"Harassment and attacks with mortars and sniper shootings by PKK / YPG terrorists continued today against our elements conducting reconnaissance-surveillance and mine/HME cleansing activities in the area of the Operation Peace Spring," the ministry said in a statement.

"Within the scope of our right of self-defense and the safety of our troops, the PKK / YPG terrorists were targeted and required response was given," the statement said.

Launched on Oct. 9, Operation Peace Spring aims to eliminate the terrorist YPG/PKK elements from northern Syria east of the Euphrates River in order to secure Turkey’s borders, aid in the safe return of Syrian refugees, and ensure Syria’s territorial integrity.

On Tuesday, Ankara and Moscow reached a deal under which YPG/PKK terrorists will pull back 30 kilometers (18.6 miles) south of Turkey’s border with Syria within 150 hours, and security forces from Turkey and Russia will mount joint patrols there.

In its more than 30-year terror campaign against Turkey, the PKK -- listed as a terrorist organization by Turkey, the U.S. and the European Union -- has been responsible for the deaths of 40,000 people, including women, children, and infants. The YPG is the Syrian offshoot of the PKK.