According to the US Secretary of Defense, Turkey’s actions in Syria were “unnecessary and impulsive.”

“President Erdogan is fully responsible for the consequences of these actions, including the possible re-strengthening of the Islamic State, possible war crimes and the growing humanitarian crisis,” the statement said on the Pentagon’s website.

The United States emphasized that the actions of Turkey led to the "release of many detained militants" and "undermining the multinational mission" to destroy the Islamic State.

Esper also noted the deterioration of relations between the US and Turkey in connection with the military operation of Ankara.