Speaking to the CNEWS channel, French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian said that in addition to a military presence in Iraq, France had a ‘modest’ presence in Syria to support American troops.

Le Drian, who used the word ‘modest’ when referring to the quantity of French military units in Syria, hinted that their withdrawal was not limited to the fight against DAESH.

Le Drian said: “Of course, when a political solution is provided in Syria, we will retreat” adding that the withdrawal would not be justified by the end of military operations, as the US has announced.

The French minister, who welcomed the corrections in the timing of the withdrawal to be done “with the appropriate rhythm” after a statement by US President Donald Trump, stressed that these corrections are the result of the pressures of many powers, particularly France.

Le Drian also added: “Today Trump announces that the withdrawal will be heavier and, of course, this has been the result of different pressures, particularly by France. President Macron met with him several times and thus a positive twist took place.”

Le Drian underlined the fact that the war in Northeast Syria is going on, contrary to Trump's words. He drew attention to the prisoners in the hands of the SDF and YPG. The minister mentioned that although the United States is talking about a slow withdrawal, other problems need to be solved, the prisoners being one of them.

Le Drian said that the SDF are “our most important ally in Syria. They are fighting against DAESH on the field. The US decision to withdraw from Syria is serious because it leaves the SDF in a very difficult position. Therefore, we need to ensure their security at international level.”