WASHINGTON (Reuters) - President Donald Trump’s special envoy for Syria said on Wednesday that U.S. forces had seen evidence of war crimes during Turkey’s offensive against the Kurds in Syria, and had demanded an explanation from Ankara.
“We haven’t seen widespread evidence of ethnic cleansing,” said James Jeffrey, special representative for Syria, at a House of Representatives hearing.
“Many people fled because they’re very concerned about these Turkish-supported Syrian opposition forces, as we are.
We’ve seen several incidents which we consider war crimes,” Jeffrey said.
He said U.S. officials were looking into those reports and at “a high-level” had demanded an explanation from Turkey’s government.
He also said U.S. officials were investigating a report that the restricted burning white phosphorus had been used during the Turkish offensive.
Turkish officials have denied that war crimes were committed. »
