The US Department of Defense has begun developing plans to withdraw all US troops from Syria, NBC News reports, citing two Pentagon officials, News.bg reports.
The decision was made in response to the expressed desire of President Donald Trump and his close associates to eliminate the US military presence in the region. The withdrawal plans will be implemented within 30, 60 or 90 days.
Changes in Syria since the overthrow of Bashar al-Assad
Last month, Syrian President Bashar al-Assad was ousted from power in a rebel offensive, ending his family's 50-year rule.
The events raised hopes for the investigation and punishment of war crimes committed during the 13-year civil war.
Assad and his family have been granted humanitarian asylum and are in Russia.
Appointment of interim president of Syria
In late January, following an agreement between military factions, Ahmed Sharaa was appointed interim president of the Syrian Arab Republic. He will form a temporary legislative council that will oversee the transition period until a new constitution is adopted.
Turkey and Syria Discuss Joint Strategy
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has called on all external powers to refrain from interfering in Syria. He stressed that Turkey has the capacity to fight terrorist groups, including Kurdish militias and the "Islamic State".
The possibilities for economic recovery and security in Syria were discussed at a meeting between Erdogan and Sharaa in Ankara, where a joint defense plan was also discussed.
Turkey as a new regional player in Syria
With Turkey's growing influence in Syria, it is positioning itself as a key player that can fill the vacuum left by Iran, Assad's main regional backer.
Turkey's increased influence could spark rivalry with Gulf Arab states and put Israel in a vulnerable position in the region.