Pentagon Backs Trumps Decision To Pull Troops From Syria

The Pentagon is backing the President’s decision to pull U.S. troops from Syria.

President Trump decided to pull US. troops from northern Syria last week, drawing criticism from both Democrats and Republicans, saying the U.S. is abandoning its allies.

The President defended his decision on Twitter, saying he wants troops to come home and get the U.S. out of what he calls "ridiculous endless wars." Trump says the U.S. has done more than anyone expected and it's time for others in the region to protect their own territory.

The Pentagon is backing the decision. Chief Pentagon Spokesman Jonathan Hoffman said in a statement, “Despite continued misreporting to the contrary, Secretary Esper and Chairman Milley were consulted over the last several days by the President regarding the situation and efforts to protect U.S. forces in northern Syria in the face of military action by Turkey. The Department's position has been and remains that establishing a safe zone in northern Syria is the best path forward to maintaining stability.”

The move allowed Turkey to launch an offensive against Kurds in northern Syria. Turkish forces crossed the border into the area held by Kurdish forces after hours of airstrikes. Thousands have already fled in the face of ground and air attacks.

Hoffman said, “Unfortunately, Turkey has chosen to act unilaterally. As a result we have moved the U.S. forces in northern Syria out of the path of potential Turkish incursion to ensure their safety. We have made no changes to our force presence in Syria at this time."

The President says if Turkey does anything he considers off limits he'll "obliterate" its economy.