Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan held discussions over the phone on advancing the Syrian settlement, the Russian Foreign Ministry reported on Sunday. The conversation focused on fostering an inclusive national dialogue to address the ongoing conflict in Syria.

"Sergey Lavrov and Hakan Fidan also discussed further steps to support the Syrian settlement by organizing an inclusive national dialogue involving all political and ethno-confessional forces in Syria and all 'external players' capable of facilitating the search for appropriate agreements," the ministry’s statement read.

The foreign ministers also touched on regional and global issues, including the Ukraine conflict, while stressing the importance of safeguarding energy security. "Particular attention was paid to the need to prevent actions aimed at creating risks to energy security," the ministry added.

The talks come amid increased pressure on Syria's new leadership to distance itself from Russia, as Western nations impose preconditions for lifting sanctions on the country. European officials have reportedly been urging the interim government in Damascus to sever ties with Moscow in exchange for economic and political incentives.

Read more: EU to decide on Syria sanctions at January 27 meeting

Meanwhile, Turkey has voiced frustration with Western nations over their continued support for Kurdish factions, which Ankara views as terrorist organizations. The issue has been a longstanding point of contention, with Turkey accusing the West of undermining its security interests in the region.

Turkish-French relations sour

Earlier today, sources informed Al Mayadeen that France has expanded its military presence in SDF-controlled areas of northeastern Syria in an attempt to mediate a truce between Turkish-backed SNA factions and the SDF while promoting the formation of an inclusive Syrian government.

Sources further disclosed that the SDF, for the first time, announced its possession of drone bombers, believed to be French-made, used in recent battles near the Tishrin Dam and Qaraqozak Bridge, an area highly prone to disaster due to potential damage to the dam.

Read more: Turkiye warns of disaster at Syria's Tishreen Dam amid intense clashes

Ankara has expressed strong opposition to France's activities in the region, viewing them as a major obstacle to resolving the conflict militarily. According to the sources, Turkish officials believe French actions "constitute a direct challenge to Turkey's efforts to achieve a comprehensive military solution."

This position was reinforced by Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, who remarked, "Turkey does not see any role for French forces in Syria, and the US is the only party we communicate with."

Sources noted Ankara's sensitivity to France's increasing involvement in SDF-controlled areas, warning that it could bolster the SDF's military capabilities and create further obstacles for Turkey's plans to neutralize the SDF and Kurdish units in the region.