08 Nov 2019 | 06:57 PM UTC
US: Turkish president to visit Washington, DC November 13
Turkey’s President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan plans to visit Washington, DC November 13; heightened security presence and associated disruptions expected
Event
US President Donald Trump announced that Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan will travel to Washington, DC on Wednesday, November 13, to meet with him at the White House. Demonstrations regarding the ongoing situation in northeastern Syria are possible in Washington, DC leading up to, during, and following President Erdoğan's visit.
A heightened security presence and associated disruptions, such as road closures, are possible over the coming days. Clashes between protesters and security forces cannot be ruled out.
Context
President Erdoğan's last visit to Washington, DC in 2017 was marred by violence when clashes broke out between a group of pro-Kurdish demonstrators and Turkish security personnel outside of the Turkish ambassador's residence. At least 11 people were injured in the incident and 15 of Erdoğan's security guards were consequently indicted.
Advice
Individuals in Washington, DC are advised to monitor the situation, anticipate a heightened security presence and associated transportation disruptions, avoid all demonstrations as a precaution, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.
