New tensions have mounted between Ankara and its NATO allies, as Turkey criticized France and the United States for saying a ceasefire in Syria should be applied to Afrin. Turkey welcomed the truce, but insisted that it should not affect its operation against Kurdish militia. Meanwhile, as urban fighting looms, Turkey has sent hundreds of police and special forces to northern Syria. It signals a new stage in its over one month operation, targeting to clear the Turkish border of the People's Protection Units or YPG.