US President Joe Biden has signed a decree lifting some of the sanctions against Turkey imposed by Donald Trump in 2019 over the “Operation in Syria” military operation in Syria. This was reported by Hürriyet Daily News.
In his explanation to Congress, Biden noted that the geopolitical circumstances that gave rise to the sanctions had changed significantly. The Turkish operation was completed more than five years ago, making the previous measures irrelevant.
The new decree
Biden’s executive order preserves the US’ authority to impose sanctions in certain cases:
- threats to peace, security or stability in Syria;
- violation of Syria’s territorial integrity;
- human rights violations.
Background.
The first sanctions order against Turkey was signed on 14 October 2019 by then-President Donald Trump. It imposed restrictions on the Turkish ministers of defence, interior and energy in response to Ankara’s actions in Syria.
Context of Biden’s decision
The decision to lift the sanctions reflects the changing geopolitical realities in the region, as well as Washington’s desire for a more flexible policy towards Turkey. However, the new executive order retains the possibility of rapidly imposing sanctions in case of violations of international law or human rights.
This step underscores the Biden administration’s efforts to adapt US foreign policy to current challenges and changes in the global security situation.
