EU, Europe Rally Behind Syria-YPG Ceasefire Agreement

(MENAFN) The European Union and multiple European nations threw their weight behind a ceasefire pact Friday between Syria's government and the YPG terror group—publicly known as the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF)—demanding full compliance to safeguard civilians and facilitate an inclusive political transformation.

EU spokesperson Anouar El Anouni issued an appeal in an official statement: "We call on all parties to implement it in a spirit of good faith and compromise."

Brussels emphasized that "a full cessation of hostilities is needed to enable the provision of humanitarian aid, the protection of civilians and the return of internally displaced persons," warning that northeastern Syria's stability remains critical for successful political transition.

The bloc also demanded all factions guarantee security at detention centers and camps to block any Daesh resurgence, while signaling readiness to assist implementation efforts.

Switzerland aligned with the EU stance, characterizing the accord as providing "a framework for a ceasefire and for advancing an inclusive political transition." The Foreign Ministry, posting on X, urged sustained progress toward "a country for all Syrians."

Germany similarly endorsed the arrangement, with a Foreign Ministry representative declaring that "the peaceful integration of the SDF into state structures is an important step on the path toward a unified and inclusive Syria," describing it as essential for lasting stabilization and economic renewal.

Dutch Foreign Minister David van Weel praised the development on X, asserting that "the permanent ceasefire, along with commitments on integration, Kurdish rights, and the return of displaced people, marks an important step toward a stable and united Syria."

Spain characterized the agreement as "an indispensable step for Syria's stability, to end violence, advance toward a definitive cessation of hostilities, and expand humanitarian access," while reaffirming dedication to "a peaceful, inclusive political transition fully respectful of the rights of all Syrians."

French President Emmanuel Macron announced on X that Paris supports "a sovereign, united and stable Syria," welcoming the "comprehensive agreement allowing a permanent ceasefire and the peaceful integration of the Syrian Democratic Forces."

Macron committed France's backing for complete implementation.

Friday's sweeping accord between Damascus and the YPG terror organization establishes a ceasefire alongside a roadmap for progressive integration into military and governmental frameworks.

The Syrian Army initiated operations against the YPG on January 16 in territories west of the Euphrates River. Combat subsequently expanded eastward with tribal force participation, resulting in most YPG-held areas falling under government authority.

An earlier January 18 ceasefire and full integration deal between Damascus and the YPG outlined the group's complete withdrawal from Raqqa and Deir ez-Zor eastern provinces, governmental takeover of public institutions in Hasakah, central control of all border crossings and energy assets, and individual YPG member absorption into security apparatus.

Fighting reignited January 19 after the YPG rejected compliance. Damascus announced January 20 it had declared a ceasefire while granting the organization a four-day window to proceed with integration.

MENAFN01022026000045017169ID1110678594