Defense Secretary: Turkey Committing War Crimes in Northern Syria

Secretary Esper at his Swearing-In Ceremony

Defense Secretary Mark Esper said Sunday that it appears that Turkey is committing war crimes against the Kurds in northern Syria. This news comes as President Trump said on Twitter that the world "should let" Turkey fight against the Kurds.

“It’s a very terrible situation over there, a situation caused by the Turks. Despite our opposition, they decided to make this incursion,” Esper said, contradicting what the President has repeatedly stated publicly.

“Turkey committed this action despite our protestations, all of our warnings,” he continued. “We are doing what’s in the interest of our service members not to put them in harm’s way.”

When asked if Turkey was committing war crimes against the Kurds, Esper responded, "It appears to be."