01.01.2019, Manbij.
The arrival of the Syrian Arab Army (SAA) brings hope to the residents of the city of Manbij and surrounding villages, RIA Novosti reported on January 1.
The residents of the settlements that the government army has taken under control look with hope upon the arrival of the Syrian army. “We were here when the Kurds resisted ISIL (organization banned in Russia) and then the Turkish militants. Now we have all the more reason to stay here. Now, the army is here, so no one will dare invade,” says a man who lives near the new frontline of the Syrian army.
A Syrian living in another village explains that Syrians and Kurds have been living on this land for many generations, in fraternity and peace. “We are one country and one nation.” At the same time, he associates the Turkish army with militants, and believes that the Americans and the French are occupiers.
The Syrian army is consolidating on former Kurdish positions in western Manbij, waiting for an offensive by the pro-Turkish forces. Previously, the Kurdish groups voluntarily surrendered Manbij to the Syrian government forces.
Source: Rossa Primavera News Agency
