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yesterday

PKK Expected to Announce Disbandment Following Historic Congress

The Kurdish militant group signals an imminent end to its 40-year insurgency after convening a congress to formalize decisions on disarmament and dissolution.

People flash V-signs as they gather to watch a televised press conference of the pro-Kurdish Peoples' Equality and Democracy Party (DEM Party), in Diyarbakir, Turkey, February 27, 2025. REUTERS/Sertac Kayar
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DEM party members read out a declaration by PKK leader Abdullah Ocalan on February 27
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Overview

  • The PKK is anticipated to announce its formal disbandment and the end of its armed struggle against Turkey, potentially as soon as today, following its May 5–7 congress.
  • This move follows a February appeal by imprisoned leader Abdullah Ocalan, who called for the PKK and affiliated groups to lay down arms and dissolve.
  • The PKK declared a ceasefire in March and has described the congress decisions as having 'historical importance,' with details to be shared soon.
  • Ocalan's call to disarm cited changing regional dynamics and Turkish reforms as making armed resistance obsolete, marking a shift in the group's strategy.
  • The announcement could pave the way for peace talks and legal mechanisms, with potential parole for Ocalan tied to the group's renouncement of violence.