US President Donald Trump on Monday reiterated his threat to impose sanctions on Turkey after Ankara’s incursion into northeast Syria.
Reports surfaced on Sunday indicating some Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) terrorists held at prisons in Kurdish-controlled territories had escaped during Turkey’s military advance into the area.
“Kurds may be releasing some [ISIL terrorists] to get us involved. Easily recaptured by Turkey or European Nations from where many came, but they should move quickly,” Trump tweeted.
“Big sanctions on Turkey coming! Do people really think we should go to war with NATO Member Turkey? Never ending wars will end!”
Trump tweeted about Turkey sanctions on Sunday as well.
“Dealing with @LindseyGrahamSC and many members of Congress, including Democrats, about imposing powerful Sanctions on Turkey,” Trump said, referring to the loyal Trump ally and US senator who lambasted the president last week, Reuters said.
“Treasury is ready to go, additional legislation may be sought. There is great consensus on this. Turkey has asked that it not be done. Stay tuned!” he added.
Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said on Friday that Trump had authorized “very powerful” new sanctions targeting Turkey.