WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI), the Ranking Member of the Armed Services Committee, issued the following statement on President Trump’s reckless decision to precipitously withdraw U.S. troops from Northern Syria:

“The weakness and incompetence that this president has shown when it comes to national security is stunning.  President Trump’s irresponsible betrayal of the Kurds is likely to lead to a resurgence of ISIS and a humanitarian crisis.  Make no mistake, the President’s failures make America less safe and he is clearing the way for the slaughter of innocent people.  Since day one, President Trump has bent to the will of autocrats.  He impulsively capitulated to Turkey’s offensive without thinking about what comes next.  Now, instead of telling Erdogan to stand down, President Trump is in full retreat.  It’s shameful.”