EU calls for ceasefire amid clashes in Turkey’s southeast

ISTANBUL

DHA Photo

A European Union spokesperson has released a statement on the “deteriorating security situation” in Turkey’s southeast amid clashes between the country’s security forces and the outlawed Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK), calling on all parties to declare a ceasefire and return to the peace process. 

“To avoid further escalation of violence, all political leaders need to call for an immediate ceasefire and return urgently to the Kurdish peace process,” the statement said, underlining that significant progress has been made over the past two years that should not be wasted. 

“The peace process remains the only way to solve a conflict that continues to claim far too many lives,” the EU said. 

The spokesperson also stressed the need to ensure the response by Turkish security forces was “contained” and did not inflict negative damage on the local population. 

“The Turkish authorities are faced with difficult challenges due to the threat posed by the PKK and by other terrorist groups at its borders. But it is crucial to keep the response contained and avoid effects on the local population,” the statement said.

“We expect all parties to act proportionately and demonstrate restraint,” it added. 

The EU also reiterated its willingness to extend its support in order to reach a positive resolution to the ongoing crisis. 

Some 500 civilians, including children, were removed from their houses in Silopi, a town under curfew in southeastern Şırnak province, to safe spots by security forces on Dec. 22.