President Donald trump threatened Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in a Vida letter a day after he invaded Northern Syria, saying Erdogan should not be a “tough guy” or a “fool” when he tried to push for talks to end military action.

The letter was first obtained by Fox News correspondent trish Regan, and was later confirmed by The New York Times as genuine. In a letter dated October 9, trump set an aggressive tone and also held out the prospect of a deal.

“Let’s develop a lot!”The letter has begun. He then threatened to destroy the Turkish economy, a remark he doubled down on shortly after Turkish forces poured on the Syrian border on October 8 to destroy the Kurdish militia, which had been an important American ally in the war against ISIS.

? Trish Regan (@trish_regan) October 16, 2019

Read more: trump threatens to” completely destroy and destroy “Turkey’s economy if it takes “beyond” action in Syria

Erdogan appeared to be unwavering in the letter. He has since rejected calls to halt military operations in Northern Syria against Kurdish militias, which Turkey has long viewed as a threat to national security. More than 100,000 people have been displaced so far in the chaotic battle between Kurdish militias and Turkish-led forces.

Trump abruptly withdrew U.S. troops from Northern Syria early last week, effectively giving Turkey the green light to begin its military operations. Since then, the US government has hit Turkey with sanctions over its campaign in Syria and finalised talks on a $100bn trade deal. It has also raised tariff rates on Turkish steel to 50%.

Dear Mr. Chairman:

Let’s work out a good deal! You don’t want to be responsible for killing thousands of people, and I don’t want to be responsible for destroying the Turkish economy? and I will do it. I have already given you a little sample in regard to pastor Brunson.

I’ve worked hard to solve some of your problems. Don’t let the world down. You can do a lot. General Mazlum is willing to negotiate with you, and he is willing to make concessions that they would never have made in the past. I enclose confidentially a copy of his letter to me just received.

History will look at you favorably if you get it done properly and humanely. He will look at you forever like the devil if good things don’t happen. Don’t be a tough guy! Don’t be a fool!

I’ll call you later.

Sincerely, Donald Trump