Manbij, which US-backed forces captured from Islamic State in 2016, has emerged as a focal point of tensions after Trump's decision to withdraw US forces whose presence has effectively deterred Turkey from attacking Kurdish forces. Manbij is controlled by US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), a militia allied to the US-backed Kurdish YPG. They also discussed their mutual interest in expanding the trade relationship between the United States and Turkey," the spokeswoman added. Trump has previously warned Turkey not to attack the Kurds in Syria and appeared to threaten Turkey's economy if it did. The SDF said on Wednesday it was ready to help create a safe zone, as fears grow that the US withdrawal will give Turkey the opportunity to mount a new assault.

Source: bd News24 January 21, 2019 00:45 UTC