Turkey’s Erdogan calls for ceasefire as civilians flee Idlib

While tens of thousands of civilians are fleeing towns in Idlib as the Syrian army intensifies its offensive, Turkish president calls for a ceasefire. As SkyNews reports, Recep Erdogan’s spokesperson said they have asked Russia for a truce.

A Turkish delegation arrived in Moscow on Monday for a meeting, during which the developments in Libya and Syria were discussed. While civilians began to leave Idlib, Turkish leader called for a truce.

On Christmas Eve, it’s the first major bout of fighting since Turkish, Russian and Iranian leaders agreed in September to “de-escalate” conflict in Idlib. The UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has also reminded the allies on their “obligations to protect civilians and ensure freedom of movement.”

President Erdogan’s spokesman said Russia told Turkey they will try to stop attacks in Idlib. Meanwhile, the UN boss said he was “alarmed by the scale of the military operation” in Idlib and northern Syria.

Last week, the Russian-led aerial bombing campaign has helped Syrian government forces close in on the strategic city.