ANKARA
Russia settled in a base constructed at a dam on Euphrates River previously emptied by the U.S. soldiers, according to Anadolu Agency correspondent on the ground.
Russia deployed forces in the base in eastern Aleppo's Tishrin Dam on the Euphrates River.
The base was previously evacuated by the U.S. during Operation Peace Spring, Turkey's anti-terror operation in northern Syria, according to the images obtained by Anadolu Agency.
The control of the base was handed over to Russia after a speech by a Russian commander alongside with YPG/PKK terrorist Servan Dervis. The exchange of the Russian flag and terror group's rag during the take over drew attention.
In December 2015, YPG/PKK, supported by the US-led international coalition, took control of Tishrin Dam from Daesh/ISIS.
ALEPPO, SYRIA - NOVEMBER 18: A Russian soldier is seen near armoured vehicle as he and other soldiers they enter the base at the Tishrin Dam on the Euphrates, which the US troops' withdrew from, located 90 kilometres east of Aleppo in Aleppo Governorate, Syria on November 18, 2019. ( Bekir Kasım - Anadolu Agency )
The dam was the first point occupied by the terrorist organization in the west of the Euphrates. U.S. had established a base at the dam in January 2016.
Russia deployed forces also in Sarrin and Sabit bases, located in the northern district of Ayn al-Arab east of the Euphrates River last week.
Operation Peace Spring, launched on Oct. 9, aims to eliminate 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.
Ankara agreed with Washington on Oct. 17 to pause its operation to allow YPG/PKK terrorists to withdraw from the planned safe zone.
On Oct. 22, Ankara and Moscow reached a deal under which YPG/PKK terrorists would pull back 30 kilometers (18.6 miles) south of Turkey’s border with Syria within 150 hours, and security forces from Turkey and Russia would mount joint patrols there.
The first joint ground patrols started on Nov. 1, 40 km (25 mi) east of Ras al-Ayn and 30 km (18.6 mi) west of the city of Qamishli.
In its more than 30-year terror campaign against Turkey, the PKK -- listed as a terrorist organization by Turkey, the U.S. and EU -- has been responsible for the deaths of 40,000 people, including women, children, and infants. The YPG is the PKK’s Syrian offshoot.
* Writing by Zehra Nur Duz
