By NOLAN D. MCCASKILL, Politico
Secretary of State John Kerry on Friday said he hopes “there will be stability and peace and continuity within Turkey” following reports of a potential military coup attempt.
Turkish Prime Minister Binali Yildirim said Friday that “some people illegally undertook an illegal action outside of the chain of command.”
The Turkish military, however, said in a statement that its armed forces “have completely taken over the administration of the country to reinstate constitutional order, human rights and freedoms, the rule of law and general security that was damaged.”
Speaking to reporters in Moscow, Kerry acknowledged the reports but said he didn’t have any additional details.
“I hope there will be stability and peace and continuity within Turkey, but I have nothing to add to with respect to what has transpired at this moment,” he said.
The State Department has issued a travel warning, advising that Americans avoid southeastern Turkey because of “increased threats from terrorist groups.”
State’s Bureau of Consular Affairs advised any U.S. citizens in Turkey to contact their family and friends to let them know they’re safe. The bureau also urged American citizens to “shelter in place & stay indoors. Update family/friends of your status when possible.”
National Security Council spokesman Ned Price said Obama’s national security team has notified the president “of the unfolding situation in Turkey” and will continue to update him regularly.
Meantime, the Pentagon is advising families of American troops to vacate certain areas of Turkey — particularly Ismir, Mugla and Adana, where Incirlik Air Base is located — due to “security concerns in the region,” according to a statement from the U.S. European Command.
European Command said the move “is intended to mitigate the risk of DoD elements and personnel, including family members, while ensuring combat effectiveness of U.S. forces and our mission support to operations in Turkey.”
