No US role in failed Turkish military coup: John Kerry

Washington, Jul 17: The US has rejected accusations that it was behind the failed military coup attempt in Turkey and said such public insinuations are harmful to our bilateral relations.

Secretary of State John Kerry called his Turkish counterpart yesterday to offer US support in the wake of a failed coup and protest claims that US had backed it.

"Kerry made clear that the United States would be willing to provide assistance to Turkish authorities conducting this investigation, but that public insinuations or claims about any role by the United States in the failed coup attempt are utterly false and harmful to our bilateral relations," State Department Spokesman John Kirby said.

During the call, Kerry reiterated US support for the democratically elected government in Turkey, for the rule of law and for the need for authorities to take all necessary precautions to safeguard civilian life and property as they respond to this attempted coup, he said.

"Kerry also urged restraint by the Turkish government and respect for due process -- and its international obligations -- as it investigates and uncovers additional information about those involved," Kirby said.

Finally, both ministers discussed Turkey's importance as both a NATO ally and a key member of the coalition to defeat Da'esh, and stressed the need to stay focused on ensuring operational support to those efforts continue unabated, he said.

Earlier, Turkey's labour minister Suleyman Soylu had reportedly suggested the United States was behind the revolt, which triggered fighting that left at least 265 dead.

Meanwhile in a travel advisory, the State Department warned US citizens of increased threats from terrorist groups throughout Turkey and to avoid travel to southeastern Turkey.

"In light of the July 15 coup attempt and its aftermath, we suggest US citizens reconsider travel to Turkey at this time," the travel advisory said.

PTI