Costa Condemns Turkey's Continued Actions in Northern Syria

(WASHINGTON) - Congressman Jim Costa (CA-16) released the following statement after the House voted to pass H.J. Res. 77, Opposing the decision to end certain United States efforts to prevent Turkish military operations against Syrian Kurdish forces in Northeast Syria:

"Turkey's continuing actions against the Kurds in Northern Syria are appalling and unjustifiable. The Kurds have courageously fought side-by-side with our troops and deserve better.

"The United States must immediately impose sanctions on Turkey in response to this outrageous behavior. This White House's actions have made this situation possible and now Congress must act to confront this unfolding humanitarian disaster, threat to our national security, and damage to our international reputation.

"This week I supported bipartisan legislation to confront the Administration and Turkey on this important issue. I supported H.J. Res. 77, which expresses Congress' opposition to the Administration's abandonment of our Kurdish allies. I will also support bipartisan legislation to impose sanctions on Turkey. Though Turkey is a NATO ally, we cannot stand by in the face of this reckless and irresponsible behavior.

This action has become necessary because of the unilateral actions that the President took without consulting Congress or our European allies. It's critical to maintain our friendships and alliances. When this is no longer a priority for our administration we embark on a perilous path. The United States needs its friends, and actions like the ones undertaken by this administration risk us being seen as an unreliable partner in international affairs."

###