OREANDA-NEWS. Turkish National Defense Minister Hulusi Akar said that Ankara is sending additional forces to Syrian governorate of Idlib in order to exercise control over the region.

“We are sending additional troops to Idlib to maintain a ceasefire and control the region. We will use military force against those who violate the ceasefire, including the radicals,” he said. According to Akar, “Turkey’s observation posts will continue to play an important role in ensuring control of the situation.” “The goal of strengthening our presence in Idlib is to maintain a permanent ceasefire,” the Minister added.

Over the past ten days, Ankara has been sending military contingents to the Turkish-Syrian border and Idlib daily. According to the experts, during this period an unprecedented number of units of military equipment has been redeployed.