Turkey, Russia discussing joint-patrols option in Syria’s Idlib: Turkish official

Ankara (Reuters) – Turkey and Russia are discussing possible joint patrols around Syria’s northwestern Idlib region as one option to ensure security there, a Turkish official said on Thursday, as Ankara ramped up threats of a military offensive in the region.

President Tayyip Erdogan said on Wednesday a Turkish military operation in Idlib to drive back a Russian-led Syrian government offensive was a “matter of time” after talks with Moscow were unsuccessful. His foreign minister said on Thursday that talks with Russia were warming, but not at desired levels.

The official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said Iran, Turkey and Russia plan to meet in Tehran early next month to further discuss Syria, including Idlib. A Russian delegation may come to Ankara before that for further talks, the person said.