Trump defends his decision on Syria; says he's trying to end endless war

US President Donald Trump on Thursday defended his decision to withdraw troops from the Kurdish-controlled northern Syria, saying he is trying to end the endless war.

Turkey has launched a broad assault on Kurdish-controlled areas in northeastern Syria, with intensive bombardment paving the way for a ground offensive. The operation was possible after the US announced on Sunday that US troops will no longer be "in the immediate area".

"Turkey has been planning to attack the Kurds for a long time. They have been fighting forever. We have no soldiers or Military anywhere near the attack area. I am trying to end the ENDLESS WARS," Trump tweeted.

His administration, Trump said, is talking to both sides. "Some want us to send tens of thousands of soldiers to the area and start a new war all over again," he said.

Turkey is a member of NATO, he noted. "Others say STAY OUT, let the Kurds fight their own battles (even with our financial help). I say hit Turkey very hard financially & with ..