US President-elect Donald Trump described the recent ousting of Syrian leader Bashar al-Assad by Ankara-backed rebels as an “unfriendly takeover” orchestrated by Turkey. Speaking at a press conference at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida on Monday, Trump characterised Turkey’s actions as “very smart” while emphasizing the brutality of Assad’s regime.
“I think Turkey is very smart… Turkey did an unfriendly takeover, without a lot of lives being lost. I can say that Assad was a butcher, what he did to children,” Trump said.
The comment highlights the complexities in US-Turkey relations, as Ankara’s growing influence in the region raises questions about future American policies in Syria.
Trump also remarked on the uncertainty surrounding Syria’s future. “Syria has a lot of indefinites,” he said, adding that Turkey “will hold the key” to what happens next.
Gaza crisis and Hamas hostages
Turning to the ongoing war in Gaza, Trump reiterated his hardline stance on Hamas, particularly regarding the hostages still held in the region. “As you know, I gave a warning that if these hostages aren’t back home by Jan 20, all hell is going to break out,” Trump warned.
During the October 7 Hamas-led attack on Israel, over 1,200 people were killed, and more than 250 were abducted, including Israeli-Americans.
Although more than 100 hostages have been freed, about half of the remaining captives are believed to be alive. Trump said he had a “very good talk” with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and promised to be “very available” after taking office.
Ukraine war and a potential deal
Addressing the Russia-Ukraine war, Trump expressed his intent to negotiate directly with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy. “I’ve seen horrific images of death and destruction from the war, and it’s got to stop,” he said. Trump hinted at the possibility of a deal, stating, “Zelenskiy should be prepared to make a deal.”
Trump’s comments reflect his approach to prioritise diplomacy but also signal his intent to bring an end to the conflict swiftly.
Vaccine mandates and tariffs
On domestic issues, Trump expressed his opposition to vaccine mandates, while underscoring his support for certain vaccines, such as the polio vaccine. “I don’t like mandates, but I’m a big believer in the polio vaccine,” he told reporters.
Trump also defended his plans to impose tariffs on foreign imports, arguing that such measures would benefit the US economy. “Tariffs will make our country rich,” he said, suggesting that trade policy would remain a key focus of his administration.