US Senator Ron Johnson joins Republicans questioning Syria policy

OSHKOSH — Wisconsin Sen. Ron Johnson joined the chorus of Republicans questioning President Donald Trump's plan to withdraw troops from northeastern Syria.

The White House announced plans to move U.S. troops out of harm's way in northern Syria because it appeared Turkey planned to confront Kurdish fighters it claims are terrorists. Members of Congress from both parties said the move would betray longtime Kurdish allies and likely be counterproductive to American interests in the region.

Johnson, a Republican who sits on the Foreign Relations Committee, said it would be "unconscionable" to abandon the Kurds and would "send a terrible signal" to both America's friends and enemies. He said it's in the U.S. national security interest to maintain stability in the region.